United States Bounces Back with

Straight-Set Win Over Costa Rica

LEÓN, Mexico, September 13, 2026.- The United States bounced back from its loss to Mexico a day earlier with a straight-set 3-0 (25-9, 25-8, 25-16) victory over Costa Rica on Sunday at the Domo de la Feria in León, Guanajuato, in Pool B of the 2026 Women’s Pan American Cup.

The United States controlled the match from the start, imposing its offense and presence at the net in the first two sets. Costa Rica showed greater resistance in the third, but the Americans remained in control to close out the match in three sets.

The United States improved its record to 2-1 in Pool B, while Costa Rica dropped to 0-2.

The United States dominated 36-14 in attacks, 8-0 in blocks and 7-0 in aces; the Americans also committed 19 errors to Costa Rica’s 24.

Samantha Francis was the leading scorer with 15 points on 12 attacks, two blocks and one ace. Claire Hoffman and Eva Hudson added 11 points each; Hoffman with eight attacks and three aces, and Hudson with nine attacks and two blocks.

Krystel Vargas led Costa Rica with six points.

On Monday, Costa Rica will face Guatemala in a Central American matchup at 4:00 p.m., while the United States will have a rest day.

Samantha Francis, United States top scorer: “It felt very good. I think we played as a cohesive team today. Yesterday, we talked about how we wanted to improve our communication and intensity, and I think we delivered that today. We’re going to come back just as strong, hopefully even better. We don’t play tomorrow, but we have practice and lifting, and we’re going to come back even better. We’re all going to compete our hardest.”

Krystel Vargas, Costa Rica top scorer: “It was a difficult match. The United States has more experienced players and is a more prepared team. It’s very good to play against them because it helps us raise our level and compete better. Tomorrow, we have a Central American matchup against Guatemala, and it’s good to face a team that feels like home.”