In the highly anticipated 2023 NORCECA Senior Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship taking place at the PEPS’ Amphithéatre Desjardins-Université Laval in Quebec, Cuba and the Dominican Republic emerged triumphant, clinching their respective spots in the semifinals.
Cuba Outlasts Puerto Rico
In a three-set sweep, Cuba defeated Puerto Rico with scores of 25-21, 25-23, and 25-22. Despite the seeming ease of the win, Puerto Rico put up a formidable fight in all three sets. Statistically, Cuba led in attack points (41-37) and service aces (4-2), and capitalized on more errors from their opponent (22-18). Puerto Rico edged out slightly in blocking points, recording 9-8. Greisy Fine stood out for Cuba, scoring 18 points and earning the title of “player of the game.” For Puerto Rico, Paola Santiago and Alondra Vázquez led the scoring charts with 13 and 12 points, respectively. Cuba is now slated to face the United States in Saturday’s semifinals.
Dominican Republic Dominates Mexico
On the same day, the Dominican Republic made quick work of Mexico, winning 3-0 with sets of 25-17, 25-10, and 25-12. The match saw the Dominican team overpower Mexico in virtually every facet of the game—attack points (34-17), blocking (13-3), and service aces (8-0). They also committed one fewer error (20-19).
Yonkaira Peña led the Dominican offense, contributing 11 attack points and one ace. Brayelin Martinez chipped in with another 11 points. The accolade of “player of the game” went to Dominican libero Brenda Castillo, recognized for her impeccable defensive skills.
The semifinals are set to be electrifying match-ups, with the Dominican Republic facing off against home crowd favorites, Canada, and Cuba taking on the United States. With both teams showing their mettle in their quarterfinal games, the stage is set for an exciting next round of competition.
Quarterfinals
Puerto Rico vs. Cuba 0-3 (21-25, 23-25, 22-25)
Dominican Republic vs. Mexico 3-0 25-17, 25-10, 25-12)
