SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, August 5, 2026. – Cuba survived a thrilling five-set battle to defeat Venezuela 3-2 (19-25, 25-21, 21-25, 25-22, 15-11) and secure the final semifinal berth in the women’s volleyball tournament at the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026.
The match was a true roller coaster from start to finish. Venezuela twice took the lead by claiming the first and third sets, relying on an outstanding blocking performance that repeatedly frustrated the Cuban hitters. Cuba, however, answered each challenge, finding success through the middle of the net and keeping its composure in the decisive moments to force a fifth set.
The deciding set belonged to Cuba from the outset. The Cubans opened with a commanding 4-0 run that set the tone for the tiebreak and never allowed Venezuela to recover. Although the Venezuelans narrowed the gap on several occasions, Cuba maintained its advantage behind an efficient offense to close out the match 15-11 and book its place in the semifinals.
The semifinal matchups are now set, with Cuba facing Colombia, while Puerto Rico will take on defending champions Dominican Republic.
Cuba’s offense proved to be the difference, holding a commanding 69-47 advantage in kills. Venezuela dominated at the net with 19 blocks to Cuba’s 10 and also held a slight edge in aces (4-3). Cuba committed 34 unforced errors, while Venezuela finished with 23.
Evilania Martínez led Cuba’s offense with 16 points on 13 kills and 3 blocks. Yalain De la Peña and Laura Suárez each added 15 points; De la Peña scored all of hers on attacks, while Suárez contributed 9 kills, 5 blocks, and one ace. Dayana Martínez chipped in with 11 points, including 10 kills and one ace.
For Venezuela, Alejandra Argüello delivered an outstanding performance with 22 points, including 11 blocks—the highest total of the match—along with 10 kills and one ace. Isabella Sibada added 18 points (13 kills, 5 blocks), while Mariangel Vivas contributed 14 points (12 kills, 2 blocks).
Cuban setter Gretell Moreno acknowledged the challenges her team faced throughout the match.
“It definitely wasn’t our best day. I think Venezuela prepared an excellent tactical game plan and studied us well because our hitters were constantly facing double blocks. What worked for us was attacking through the middle, and that became the key to our victory. We’re happy with the result. Now it’s time to rest and get ready to face Colombia.”
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