2-ON-1. Puerto Rico’s Diana Reyes soars for a smash against Belgium’s Kaat Cos (No. 17) and Anna Koulberg in their FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup semifinal clash at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Saturday (July 6, 2024). Puerto Rico won, 25-19, 25-15, 25-16, to advance to Sunday’s final. (PNA photo by Jess Escaros)
Puerto Rico defeated Belgium, 25-19, 25-15, 25-16, to reach the final round of the FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Saturday.
Outside hitter Paola Nicole Santiago delivered 12 attacks and an ace while 18-year-old opposite Grace Mar Lopez chipped in 10 attacks for the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation champion.
Stephanie Rivera had seven attacks and one block while Neira Ortiz scored seven points, including an ace.
“I think everything, we were locked in since the beginning. We had good serves, good defense, good attacks and I think that’s what made us get the win,” the 6-foot Lopez said after the one hour and 25-minute match. “It feels great. We have been working all summer for this and now we’re prepared for tomorrow’s final."
Puerto Rico will face the winner between Vietnam, the Asian Volleyball Confederation Challenge Cup champion, and Czech Republic, which are playing in the other semifinal match as of posting time. The final is on Sunday.
The champion will secure a Volleyball Nations League ticket next year.
Vietnam ousted Alas Pilipinas in the knockout quarterfinals on Friday, 25-14, 25-22, 25-21.
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