CHILE, August 14, 2026.- The United States reached the semifinals of the FIVB Girls’ U17 World Championship after defeating Italy, while the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico earned victories in their respective classification matches on Friday in Chile.
Mexico, the other NORCECA representative in action, fell to Brazil in the classification round for positions 17-20.
United States Eliminates Italy and Reaches Semifinals
The United States remained unbeaten in the tournament after defeating Italy 3-0 (25-10, 25-15, 26-24) in the quarterfinals to secure a place among the top four teams.
The Americans dominated the first two sets before facing stronger resistance from Italy in the third, which they eventually closed out 26-24.
Kari Knotts led the United States with 19 points, including 12 attacks, one block and six service points. She was also the match’s leading scorer.
The United States will face China in the semifinals.
Dominican Republic Defeats Czechia
The Dominican Republic defeated Czechia 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-15) in the classification round for positions 9-16.
After dropping the first set, the Dominicans responded by winning three consecutive sets to remain in contention for ninth place in the tournament.
Mondesi led the Dominican Republic with 28 points, including 25 attacks and three blocks, finishing as the match’s leading scorer.
The Dominican Republic will face Argentina in the classification matches for positions 9-12.
Puerto Rico Defeats Egypt in Five Sets
Puerto Rico earned a five-set victory over Egypt 3-2 (25-18, 15-25, 25-22, 20-25, 15-8) in the classification round for positions 21-24.
The Puerto Ricans responded after Egypt tied the match at two sets apiece and dominated the tiebreaker 15-8 to secure the victory.
Aquino was Puerto Rico’s leading scorer with 15 points, all on attacks.
Puerto Rico will face host Chile for 21st place.
Mexico Falls to Brazil
Mexico lost to Brazil 3-1 (21-25, 25-23, 15-25, 10-25) in the classification round for positions 17-20.
Mexico responded after dropping the opening set and tied the match by taking the second 25-23, but Brazil regained control and won the next two sets to close out the match.
Camarena led Mexico with 13 points, all on attacks.
Mexico will face Tunisia for 19th place.
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