Puerto Rico Falls Short in NORCECA Championship Final Match

Puerto Rico put up a strong showing in the first two sets but ultimately lost to Mexico 3-0 in the final match of the Men’s NORCECA Continental Championship, securing Mexico’s spot in the NORCECA Olympic Qualifier final phase.

The second set was even more hard-fought. Mexico held two set points at 24-22, but Puerto Rico responded, extending the set through multiple rallies. Finally, with Mexico up 32-31, García connected on the attack that sealed the win.

In the third set, Mexico pulled ahead early and didn’t look back. Mauro Fuentes led Mexico with 16 points, followed by Franky Milantony with 14. González and Axel Rodríguez added 12 points each, with five of Rodríguez’s coming on blocks to lead all players. Pelegrín Vargas once again led the Puerto Rican offense and was the match’s top scorer with 18 points.

Mexico’s González was named the competition’s best opposite and best scorer with a tournament-high 80 points (68 kills, seven blocks, and five aces). Arnel Cabrera of Puerto Rico was named best receiver.