LEÓN, Guanajuato, July 31, 2025.– Canada staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Cuba 3-2 (21-25, 22-25, 25-19, 25-22, 15-9) in a thrilling semifinal match of the Women’s U23 Pan American Cup at the Domo de la Feria in León, securing their first-ever berth in the tournament’s final.
In an explosive, leveled battle, both teams traded points throughout the match, keeping the scores razor-close. Cuba controlled the first two sets, but Canada rallied in the third, leading from start to finish and forcing a fourth set. Riding the momentum, the Canadians pushed the game into a decisive tiebreak, where Taylor de Boer sealed the historic victory with a spectacular block.
“This team is so awesome, we never give up when our backs are against the wall – the next player steps up. I think we are a full team, and it showed today,” said an excited Matt Krueger, Canada’s Head Coach. “Those lessons that we’re learning are starting to pay off and that’s incredible for volleyball in Canada. Cuba is an incredible team; they are the defending champs for a reason; they were in control for the majority of the game. We just made one switch, with Taylor coming into the game and she showed up.”
Key player Taylor de Boer, who was instrumental in Canada’s comeback, reflected on the team’s grit: “After being down we came out and said we’re against the wall, so we’re giving everything, we’ve got nothing to lose and our story isn’t over, so we had to write ourselves.” She added, “I couldn’t do any of it without the support of my team.”
With this victory, Canada advances to their first Women’s U23 Pan American Cup final.
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