Havana, July 31 (RHC) – The Cuban team defeated Mexico 3-0 and secured the bronze medal in the men’s volleyball tournament at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games.
The Cubans won with straight sets of 25-22, 26-24, and 25-16, giving the island its fifth bronze medal in the history of these multi-sport games, which are celebrating their centennial today in Havana.
Although they were unable to retain the title they won at the 2023 San Salvador Games, Cuba maintains its lead in the medal count with a total of 19: 11 gold, three silver, and five bronze.
In their final match, the Cuban team displayed composure and determination in the decisive moments of the first two sets.
The Mexican team took a 21-19 lead in the opening set, but Jesús Cruz’s students responded with six points to take the lead.
The Mexicans again led in the second set until the very end, but the Caribbean team managed to tie the score at 24 and score two points to close out the set.
The third set was dominated by the Cubans, who secured the victory with a slight advantage in blocking (6-5) and superior effectiveness from the service line (6-1). In attack, they finished tied at 33, but with fewer unforced errors (23-31).
Miguel Ángel López was the top scorer of the match with 15 points, followed by the towering Daniel Martínez, who added 13, including five aces. For their opponents, Josué López scored the most points, with 12.
Cuban outside hitter Marlon Yant told the press that bronze was not the goal they had set for themselves, but that being on the podium was very important for the team.
Colombia capped off a strong tournament by defeating Puerto Rico 3-2 (25-20, 25-21, 17-25, 17-25, 15-12) to claim the championship title at Santo Domingo 2026.
Meanwhile, three Cubans earned spots on the men’s podium: outside hitter Miguel Ángel López, opposite hitter Daniel Martínez, and middle blocker Alexis Wilson.
