Belgium and Puerto Rico have become the first semifinalists in the 2024 Women’s Challenger Cup, sweeping their quarterfinal matches in Manila on Thursday. Belgium triumphed over Sweden, while Puerto Rico defeated Kenya.
Belgium won 3-0 against Sweden with scores of 25-16, 25-23, and 25-22. Manon Stragier led Belgium with 17 points, supported by Britt Fransen with 12 points and Pauline Martin with 11. Sweden’s Anna Haak scored 15 points, followed by Alexandra Lazic with 14.
Puerto Rico also secured a 3-0 victory against Kenya, with scores of 25-20, 25-19, and 27-25. Grace Mar Lopez Villanueva was the top scorer for Puerto Rico with 19 points, and Diana Reyes added 10 points. Kenya’s Pamella Adhiambo Owino led all scorers with 22 points. Belgium and Puerto Rico will face each other in the first semifinal at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday.
The remaining quarterfinals are scheduled for Friday, featuring Czechia vs. Argentina and Philippines vs. Vietnam.
