In what fans hope to be a rebirth for the once mighty team, Cuba easily beat Mexico 3-0 (25-16, 25-16, 25-12) to win the 2018 U23 Men’s Pan American, held in Nicaragua. Middle blocker Jose Masso and opposite Miguel Gutierrez led Cuba with 10 points apiece, while Miguel Sarabia had 7 points in the losing effort. Cuba’s rout of the Mexican team was just a replay of its whole tournament, as it won the competition undefeated and with no set lost. This was to be expected though, as the Cuban roster had in it a few players that had just played at the 2018 FIVB WCH.
Cuban captain Adrian Goide expressed his happiness with the title:
“We came with the goal of finishing in first place. Today we came out strong, not giving Mexico any chance to lead. Some players are leaving to play overseas but most of the team is heading back to Cuba and continue preparing for other tournaments.”
Cuban coach Nicolas Vives was likewise very pleased:
“My boys performed well, it was an excellent tournament and finishing the year on a high note is very important. This group is extremely young, their preparation will continue.”
Final Standings
- Cuba
- Mexico
- Guatemala
- Nicaragua
- Peru
Dream Team
- MVP: Roamy Alonso (Cuba)
- Outside Hitters: Osniel Melgarejo (Cuba), Miguel Lopes (Cuba)
- Opposite: Miguel Gutierrez (Cuba)
- Middles: Jose Masso (Cuba), Josue Lopes (Mexico)
- Setter: Adan Ruano (Guatemala)
- Libero: Jhonathan Nakamatsu (Peru)
- Highest Scorer: Carlos Lopez (Guatemala)
- Best Receiver: Jhonathan Nakamatsu (Peru)
- Best Digger: Miguel Castillo (Nicaragua)
- Best Server: Osniel Melgarejo (Cuba)
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