Cuba defeats Mexico and go for gold

HAVANA, Cuba, October 9, 2014 – Cuba outclassed Mexico 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-15) in a match, among unbeaten teams, which defined the first place of the preliminary round. Both teams will meet again tomorrow for the title of the II U-23 Pan American Men’s Volleyball Cup.

Cubans and Mexicans had already ensured the two NORCECA tickets for the World Championship, 2015. They staged a nice clash, despite de superiority of the locals particularly in the spikes (40-21) and the services (8-1), while Cubans have the same total of blocks (6-6) and in unforced errors one more than Mexico (22-21).    

The offense was led by the local opposite hitter Osniel Rendon and the middle blocker Liva Osoria, both with 12 points, followed by the outside hitter Lazaro Fundora (11). For Mexico, Alexis Garay and Humberto Ceballos only scored seven each.

The coach, Rodolfo Sanchez, “the team is emotionally good, but we are called to continue working, eliminate the errors and not to underestimate the rival as Mexico is a team of quality.” 

Fundora, captain of Cuba, remembered his goal was to overcome all the opponents. “We fulfilled and, in fact, attained the qualification. Now we have to win the gold medal also in straight sets, with fewer errors, and reaffirm we are the champions.” 

Also Cuban, Roberto Vilches, coach of Mexicans, expressed: “It was a good match. We came out to play our game against a team which is, technically and tactically, very strong. We achieved to attack through the middle and score. I think in service we did not attain the same, but I believe in the final my boys will do it better.” 

The visiting captain, Jesus Perales, referred to the quality of the Cubans: “We are aware of, historically, they are better than us; they have a great fitness and complement each other very well. We came out to do our work and although it was not enough, it was worthy as a reference in order to break our soul tomorrow on the court for the title.”