In the conclusion of the Pool stage of the 2023 NORCECA Senior Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship, USA and Puerto Rico secured notable victories in their respective matches.
USA Sweeps Dominican Republic to Reach Semifinals
Olympic gold medalists USA lived up to their reputation by securing a clean 3-0 win (25-22, 25-22, 25-16) against a resilient Dominican Republic team. Despite a strong start by the Caribbean squad, the U.S. dominated in key statistics like attack points and blocks. Jordan Thompson was a standout player for the U.S., scoring 15 points during the match. The U.S. team’s victory propels them directly into the semifinals, sparing them from quarterfinal action.
Dominican Republic, although falling short, showed moments of brilliance, particularly in their service game where they outscored the USA in aces. The team will now have to regroup and prepare for a challenging quarterfinal match against Mexico.
Puerto Rico Makes Comeback Win Against Mexico
In another gripping encounter, Puerto Rico staged a remarkable comeback against Mexico to win the match 3-2 (27-25, 17-25, 14-25, 25-23, 15-11). After losing two straight sets, Puerto Rico adjusted its strategy to take the fourth set and eventually the tie-breaker. The team’s resilience sets them up for a quarterfinal duel against Cuba.
Mexico, though defeated, performed well in several statistical categories like attack points, blocks, and aces. Grecia Castro López was their top scorer with 23 points.
Both matches have set the stage for an intense series of quarterfinals and semifinals, as the tournament continues at PEPS’ Amphithéâtre Desjardins-Université Laval in Quebec City until September 3. Dominican Republic will face Mexico, while Puerto Rico and Cuba go head-to-head in what promises to be a high-octane match-up.
Pool A
Puerto Rico vs. Mexico 3-2 3-2 (27-25, 17-25, 14-25, 25-23, 15-11)
Pool B
Cuba vs. Costa Rica 3-0 (25-18, 25-11, 25-9)
USA vs. Dominican Republic 3-0 (25-22, 25-22, 25-16)
