TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, July 4, 2026. – Costa Rica staged a remarkable comeback after dropping the first two sets to defeat Belize 3-2 (22-25, 25-27, 25-19, 25-21, 15-13) and capture the bronze medal at the II AFECAVOL Girls’ U17 Central American Volleyball Championship.
Belize set the tone early by edging a closely contested opening set. In the second, the Belizeans erased a five-point deficit, saving two set points to move within one set of the bronze medal.
Costa Rica responded in the third set by adjusting its offensive system. The team spread the attack more effectively to the pins while making better use of quick middle attacks through Diana Espinoza to break Belize’s block. At the same time, Costa Rica’s serve became a key weapon in shifting the momentum of the match.
With renewed confidence, Costa Rica carried that momentum into the fourth set, pulling away in the closing stages to level the match. The deciding fifth set featured several lead changes before the Costa Ricans showed greater composure in the final points, completing the comeback to secure the bronze medal.
After winning the inaugural edition of the tournament, Costa Rica returned to the podium with the bronze medal, while Belize finished in fourth place.
Sara Campos led Costa Rica’s offense with 19 points, including six service aces, while Jimena Rodríguez and Diana Espinoza each contributed 11 points.
For Belize, captain Jamielee Espejo delivered an outstanding offensive performance, setting a new tournament record with 29 points, including 25 kills. She surpassed the previous record of 27 points, established by fellow Belizean Akili Jones against Guatemala in the 2024 edition, and finished as the tournament’s leading scorer.
Costa Rica held the advantage in attacks (47-39) and service aces (15-11), while Belize dominated the blocking category (9-1), with Zuri Jones recording five blocks. In unforced errors, Costa Rica committed 46 and Belize 49.
Costa Rica head coach Kareem Richards: “Thank God we were able to win the medal, especially for these young players who have worked so hard for it. It was an interesting match. I think we started the game carrying out the effects of yesterday’s result, but we kept fighting. We had to recover after falling behind 0-2, and the girls did a tremendous job.”
Belize head coach Sherlenne Johnson: “I’m a little disappointed, but this tournament is truly competitive for players of this age group. I really enjoy competitions like this, with strong teams. I truly believe my team is very good. I have great players, they’re strong and they fight until the end. At one point I think we got a little tired and lost some concentration, but the effort they made was tremendous.”
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