MANAGUA, Nicaragua, September 2, 2026.- Canada imposed its strength from the service line and at the net to defeat Nicaragua 3-0 (25-8, 25-15, 25-12) in the final match of the second day of competition at the NORCECA U23 Women’s Pan American Cup.
The Canadians controlled the match with service pressure and their presence at the net. Canada held a commanding 16-1 advantage in serves and 9-1 in blocks, while also leading 33-16 in attacks. Both teams committed 17 errors.
With the victory, Canada evened its record at 1-1 after falling to the United States on the opening day, while Nicaragua dropped to 0-2. Canada will face Mexico on Thursday at 5:00 p.m., while the hosts will take on Costa Rica at 7:00 p.m.
Veronica Dickson led Canada with 12 points, including five blocks and three aces and Esther Wildeboer added eight points. María José Rivera scored five for Nicaragua.
Matthew Krueger, head coach of Canada: “Today was great for our entire team. Everyone got into the match, and the victory was a team effort. Nicaragua is a fun team to play against. They are very skilled in the back row, kept the ball alive and made some great plays that allowed us to work on a few things. I’m really happy for our entire team and glad that everyone was able to contribute today against a good opponent.”
On the upcoming match, Krueger added: “Mexico is going to be a tough match for us. They are very skilled, run a fast offense and have some very good players, two of whom have experience with the senior national team. It’s going to be a good challenge for us.”
Veronica Dickson, Canada’s leading scorer: “I feel really good. We worked very well together today, and I think our preparation was key. I also think the overall atmosphere felt really good. I’m very excited about our ability to work together and push through adversity, which will be very important in the upcoming matches. I have complete confidence in us, and I’m very excited.”
María José Rivera, player of Nicaragua: “I’m happy with the work I’ve done. I feel that I’ve improved a lot, not only individually but also collectively, with the connection I have with the different teams, both at the senior and youth levels. Canada is a difficult team, but I feel we gave a good account of ourselves, just as we did against Mexico, and I think this will help with the development of future generations.”
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