GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala, October 17, 2025.– Nicaragua set the pace and displayed strong consistency to defeat Guatemala in straight sets (25-23, 25-17, 25-22) in their opening match in Pool A of the men’s volleyball tournament at the 12th Central American Games Guatemala 2025, held at the Teodoro Palacios Flores Gymnasium.
The Nicaraguan squad showed balance across all areas, starting with a tight first set that they managed to take thanks to their offensive power. Axel Gutiérrez sealed the set with an attack that the Guatemalan defense couldn’t control, proving to be the most effective player for his team.
In the second set, Nicaragua took an early lead (13-7), dominating with a strong blocking performance led by Víctor Fonseca, and maintaining control until the end.
Guatemala attempted to respond in the third set, led by middle blocker Jason Hernández, who was instrumental in keeping the score close. However, Gutiérrez’s relentless attacks, supported by Jonny Zeledón and Emilio Andrews, secured Nicaragua’s victory. A hitting error by José Samayoa sealed the match.
AFECAVOL: GUATEMALA 2025 – VOLEIBOL
Nicaragua held the advantage in attacks (44-39), blocks (10-7), and service points (4-2), committing 14 unforced errors compared to Guatemala’s 17.
Axel Gutiérrez was the standout performer of the match with 27 points, supported by Jonny Zeledón with 13. For Guatemala, Jason Hernández scored 18 points and Andy Blanco added 10.
Nicaragua will rest on the second day of competition, while Guatemala (0-1) will seek to bounce back against Panama.
Axel Gutiérrez, Nicaragua’s captain: “We always work trusting in God. We came prepared because we still had that sting from losing to Guatemala at the Final Four, when we were up 2-0 and they came back to win the match. On Sunday we’ll face Panama, which I consider one of the toughest teams in the tournament. They’re a strong opponent, but we’ll take it step by step.”
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