USA moves one win away from fourth consecutive U21 Pan Am Cup title

COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 11, 2026. – Defending champion United States is one victory away from capturing its fourth consecutive NORCECA U21 Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup title after defeating Mexico in straight sets 3-0 (25-17, 25-11, 25-12) in Saturday’s semifinals at the Covelli Center in Columbus, Ohio.

The Americans will now play Canada for the gold medal while pursuing their fifth title overall, having previously won the tournament in 2017, 2022, 2023 and 2025. Mexico and the Dominican Republic will battle for the bronze medal.

Mexico kept the opening set competitive through the early stages before the United States imposed its physical advantage at the net and from the service line. The defending champions gradually took control of the match, dominating the second and third sets behind an aggressive blocking system and balanced offense.

The United States led every statistical category, finishing with advantages in attacks (42-20), blocks (14-3) and service aces (4-0).

Suliane Davis paced the U.S. offense with 10 points, while Ayden Ames and Henley Anderson added 9 points apiece.

For Mexico, Naomi Cruz scored 7 points and Mariana Contreras added 5.

Tama Miyashiro, U.S. head coach: “I’m very happy because we were able to put pressure on Mexico right from the start. I’ve been following their matches throughout the tournament, and they have good players. Our goal today was to neutralize their attack. I’m very proud of the determination my players showed, and we’re excited to be in the final.”

Eduardo Murguía, Mexico head coach: “Congratulations to the United States on an outstanding performance. They are an excellent team. Their desire to reach the final and win on home court made the match very difficult for us, starting with their aggressive serving. We knew we would face a very tall block, but now we have to turn the page and fight for the bronze medal against the Dominican Republic.”

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