IRAPUATO, Mexico, August 21, 2024.- Argentina (4-0) showed character and courage to defeat Cuba (1-3) in straight sets 3-0 (27-25, 25-15, 25-23) in the last match of day four in Group B of the XXI Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup.
Cuba took a 21-16 lead in the first set, but Argentina tightened their block and managed to level and take the lead 24-22, although they missed two set points before Elina Rodríguez and team captain Verónica Mayer came through with powerful killd to close the set 27-25.
Argentina gained momentum after turning the score around, and Cuba couldn’t handle the South Americans’ serves, which limited their attack. Argentina’s effective blocking contributed 12 points, 5 from Candelaria Herrera.
Elina Rodríguez was Argentina’s top scorer with 17 points, followed by Bianca Cugno and Bianca Farriol with 9 each. For Cuba, Dezirett Madan scored 8 points.
Argentina led in attacks 35-28, blocks 12-6, and both teams scored on 4 aces. Cuba committed 26 unforced errors, while Argentina had 25.
Argentina will close the group stage on Friday at 5:00 p.m. against the United States, fighting for first place in Pool B and a direct ticket to the semifinals. Cuba will face Chile at 2:00 p.m.
Victoria Mayer, captain of Argentina: “We came here looking for a match that I think was very important because Cuba had been playing very well; yesterday, they had a great match against the United States, and we knew it wouldn’t be easy. I think we showed character, and that’s why we were able to close the first set. The end of the match was very tight, so luckily, we were able to close it out and bring it home. Now we’re thinking about tomorrow, as the group will be decided, and we’re going to fight with everything”.
Facundo Morando, Head Coach of Argentina: “Yesterday, we saw that our team has the ability to wait, endure, and when the time comes, make the breakthrough; I think that’s a good display of character. It’s been like that since the match against Chile, and if we review the games, it’s been happening. Today, once again, serving and blocking were two key weapons. Cuba is also strong in blocking, but we managed the game well, and Vicky (Mayer) played a great match, moving the attack around. We’re really happy with another victory”.
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