Cuba book ticket to World Championship

TIJUANA, Mexico, July 6 2012 - Cuba reached the finals at the NORCECA Boys’ U-19 Continental Championship and also qualified to the 2013 FIVB Boy’s Youth World Championship by defeating the United States 3-1 (22-25, 25-16, 26-24, 25-19) on Friday.

Osmany Santiago Uriarte led the Cuban squad with a tournament-high 36 points, while Inover Romero finished with 20.  For USA Lee Smith and Fey Kupono tallied 15 and 14 respectively.

“We finally reached the level we wanted. This victory gave us the ticket to play for the first place. I liked this match a lot, because we faced a very good team like USA with great height,” Cuba’s captain Ricardo Calvo commented after the match.

“I want to congratulate Cuba. They played a great match, with a high level,” said American captain Christian Blough, while USA coach Daniel Friend stated: “Cuba is a very physical and athletic team. We did a nice job, but had a few errors close to the end. We hope to have the opportunity to rebound tomorrow get medal and the ticket to the World Championship”.

Defending champions Cuba will play again for the title won in 2010.

“This was a final in advance. We matched a very tall and talented team with a great technique. I am happy with the kids for this victory and also hope USA can qualify to the World Championship,” Cuba’s Coach Rodolfo Sánchez said.