Chile opens U21 Pan American Cup with victory over Puerto Rico

ALAJUELA, Costa Rica, July 22, 2025. – Chile kicked off the U21 Women’s Pan American Cup in dominant fashion, defeating Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-14, 25-17, 25-23) at the Profesor Jorge Luis Solera Gymnasium at the Monserrat Sports Complex in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

Chile took control from the start, reaching the first technical timeout with a five-point lead at 8-3. In the second set, Puerto Rico tried to even the match, but after point 10, the Chileans regained command and pulled away comfortably.

Dominga Aylwin led the South American squad with 17 points (16 kills and 1 ace), while team captain Petra Schwartzman also reached double digits with 12 points (10 kills, 1 block, and 1 ace). For Puerto Rico, Chareika Carrión was the match’s top scorer with 18 points, all from attacks.

Chile dominated all statistical categories, attacks (42-33), aces (5-2), and blocks (7-3).

Karla Molina, Consul of the Chilean Embassy, was present throughout the match supporting the team. She said, “It’s always emotional to see fellow Chileans here, and even more so with a first victory. It truly feels special to be far from home and watch them represent our country and our sport as ambassadors, it's an incredible feeling.”

Dominga Aylwin shared after the match, “I’m super happy with our team’s victory. This tournament is part of our preparation for the World Championship. We entered the game with strong conviction, and the result was a win, so I’m really excited.”

Chareika Carrión of Puerto Rico commented, “It was our first match, and we started very unfocused. In the third set, we got more organized, and I hope we can show more of what our team is capable of in the upcoming games.”