MANAGUA, Nicaragua, November 19, 2025. – The United States recovered after dropping the first set to defeat Cuba 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-22, 25-13), earning their second win in Pool B of the NORCECA U17 Boys’ Continental Championship.
Cuba (1-1) came from behind to snatch the first set 25-23, rallying from a 20-23 deficit and scoring five straight points without a U.S. response.
In the following sets, the United States improved significantly, especially from the service line, putting Cuba’s reception under pressure and limiting their offense, which was contained by an efficient block that totaled 14 points compared to only five from the Cubans. The U.S. also led in attacks 49-41 and in aces 6-4, committing 31 errors to Cuba’s 29.
Noah Mbaitoloum of the United States was the top scorer for the second straight match with 18 points. Nikoden Opiola added 13, and Franklin Vincent chipped in 11. For Cuba, Reinaldo Márquez tallied 18 points, followed by Dalian La O with 13.
The United States will face the Dominican Republic on Thursday at 2:00 p.m., while Cuba will take on Mexico at 4:00 p.m. in the final matches of the group stage.
Brandon Taliaferro, United States head coach: “Matches between Cuba and the United States are always a fun battle. It was great to see the boys recover after Cuba came out strong in the first set. We came back, and I thought we were stable in the next set, though there was pressure throughout. The pressure was good for our boys to find a good rhythm. Tomorrow, we play the Dominican Republic, and we believe we will perform better, we’re trying to improve a little every day.”
Noah Mbaitoloum, U.S. top scorer: “I’m proud of the team; you can’t be the best without an amazing supporting system. I have the ability to make good plays thanks to a great setter and strong defense. My teammates were incredible today; we lost the first set but recovered very well. I think we complemented each other; our middles pulled the block, and it was a team effort. I’m grateful to them.”
Liam Sem Estrada, Cuba head coach: “Despite the loss, the boys looked a bit better today; more relaxed, with more harmony and greater intent in the key elements of the game. Our main objective from the beginning has been to improve match by match and help the boys gain confidence. Today they looked better, considering they had never faced a rival of this level. Even though they are kids, the U.S. has many hours of training in their schools.”
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