LEÓN, Guanajuato, July 29, 2025.- The United States earned its third consecutive straight-set victory by defeating Costa Rica 3-0 (25-18, 25-10, 25-10), clinching a direct ticket to the semifinals of the Women’s U23 Pan American Cup being held at the Domo de la Feria in León, Guanajuato.
With this result, the United States finished first in Pool A and now awaits its opponent for Thursday’s semifinal round. Costa Rica, on the other hand, will play the quarterfinals against the winner between Canada and Nicaragua on Wednesday.
From the opening set, Jurnee Robinson pushed her team ahead with a 13-9 lead, supported by Chloe Chicoine to close the frame, despite a strong offensive performance by Costa Rican opposite Ivanny Sey Blackwood.
In the second set, after making changes to their lineup, the American blocking was key in stopping the Central American offense and maintaining control of the game. The third set followed the same pattern, with the U.S. returning to its starting lineup to seal the 3-0 win.
The United States dominated in attacks with a huge 50-20 advantage and also led in blocks 6-2. Neither team recorded any service aces. The U.S. committed 16 unforced errors compared to Costa Rica’s 19.
Only two players scored in double figures: Jurnee Robinson was the match’s top scorer with 14 points for the U.S., playing in the first and third sets; while Ivanny Sey Blackwood led Costa Rica with 11 points.
Emily Klika, U.S. libero said after the match “This match was a really good opportunity for us to get in our rhythm going into the semifinals. Everyone got a chance to play and contribute, so that was big because we’re going to need them to face bigger matches. We are very excited, and we want to compete for a medal for the USA, you can expect a lot of girls playing with energy, effort and heart”.
Costa Rica’s head coach, Kareem Richards, reflected on the group stage saying, “My team went from less to more. Even though we won the first match and lost the next two, there was clear progress in the athletes’ game. The goal is to keep growing; this is a great opportunity, and we will continue working.”
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