COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 12, 2026. – Mexico staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Dominican Republic 3-2 (22-25, 21-25, 25-19, 25-12, 18-16) and capture the bronze medal at the 2026 NORCECA U21 Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup, held at the Covelli Center in Columbus, Ohio.
With the result, Mexico increased its all-time medal tally in the tournament to four: one gold (2013) and three bronze medals (2022, 2023, and 2026).
After dropping the opening two sets, the Mexicans responded with determination. They pulled one set back in the third, dominated the fourth 25-12, and completed the comeback by prevailing in a dramatic fifth set, which was decided 18-16.
Mexico held the advantage in attacks (67-49) and service aces (8-3), while the Dominican Republic narrowly led in blocks (14-13).
Aitana Tanguma paced Mexico with 27 points, including 18 kills, five blocks, and four aces. Angélica Torres added 20 points, while Naomi Cruz contributed 17.
For the Dominican Republic, Rayni Mondesí led all scorers with 24 points, followed by Virelys Rivera with 13 and Yalyn Filpo with 12.
Eduardo Murguía, Mexico’s head coach: “I’m very happy. It was a very intense match. We were able to come back after falling behind, made some adjustments, and things started to work for us. Above all, the players committed themselves to the game plan, and that changed the team’s attitude. Congratulations to the Dominican Republic for fighting until the very last point. Now it’s time to enjoy this bronze medal.”
Alexandre Ceccato, Dominican Republic’s head coach: “It was a very difficult match. We started as the stronger team, but then Mexico made some adjustments that we couldn’t completely figure out. We had the opportunity to close out the match but couldn’t do it. Still, it was a great contest. Congratulations to Mexico.”
English 
Spanish