PR drops opener to high-powered US at NORCECA U-17 Championship

The U.S. defeated Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-13, 25-17 and 25-15) in the Group B opener of the NORCECA Women’s U-17 Continental Championship in Costa Rica. (NORCECA)

By THE STAR STAFF

Although the score heavily favored the United States in the opening match of the 2025 NORCECA Women’s U-17 Continental Championship, Puerto Rico’s fighting spirit was evident at the National Gymnasium in San José, Costa Rica on Tuesday.

The Americans defeated Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-13, 25-17 and 25-15) in the Group B opener, but the Boricuas’ combative spirit left its mark on the court.

Puerto Rico captain Anabella Valentín was clear in her assessment of the match.

“The game was very tough. The United States is definitely a very talented team; their players will go very far if they continue playing volleyball,” she said. “I am proud of my team; we always fight, we try to do our best, and we will play even harder in the next match.”

That commitment and determination characterized Puerto Rico’s attitude throughout the match, despite the opponent’s superior technique. The United States dominated in the fundamentals: attacks (28-24), blocks (7-2), and aces (8-0), in addition to capitalizing on 32 unforced errors from the island team.

The American offense was led by Maya Ogbogu with 14 points and Lexi Coleman with 10, while for Puerto Rico, Anna Aquino stood out with 9 points.

The tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2026 FIVB (International Volleyball Federation) Under-17 World Championship. On Wedneday, Puerto Rico was scheduled to play Cuba, while the United States was to face Mexico.