SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, November 11, 2025. – Guatemala had to dig deep to overcome a determined El Salvador, claiming a 3-1 (25-14, 25-16, 13-25, 25-19) victory in the stellar match of the opening day at the XV AFECAVOL Central American Women’s U19 Championship.
Guatemala secured its first win in Pool A action, while El Salvador, despite the strong support from the home crowd, fell short of celebrating a debut victory.
It was not an easy match for Guatemala, who looked dominant in the first two sets against El Salvador who struggled to maintain consistency and lost ground at key moments under pressure.
Guatemala held a clear advantage in attacking points (46-27) and blocks (4-2), while El Salvador led in service points (12-8) and committed fewer unforced errors (30 to Guatemala’s 33).
Melissa Guerra spearheaded Guatemala’s offense with 16 points, supported by Annika Graniolati with 14. For El Salvador, Katya Cunza tallied 12 points, and Paola Juárez added 10.
After the match, Julio Domínguez, head coach of Guatemala, said: “We understand this is a youth category, and the instability shown by the players is something that affects all teams in this competition. But the girls knew how to respond and solve situations. We’ll have to compete every day as if each match were a final.”
Meanwhile, Dany Calderón, coach of El Salvador, stated: “Sometimes in this age group it’s difficult for players to follow instructions. We made the necessary changes, and the substitutes came in with a different attitude and desire to win, but it wasn’t enough. This team has what it takes to fight, but there are moments when they freeze, this can only be overcome through experience.”
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