MANILA — Puerto Rico has secured its place in the final of the FIVB Women's Volleyball Challenger Cup by defeating Belgium with convincing set scores of 25-19, 25-15, 25-16 at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
According to Philippines News Agency, Puerto Rico's victory on Saturday was propelled by standout performances from Paola Nicole Santiago, who contributed 12 attacks and an ace, and Grace Mar Lopez, the 18-year-old opposite who added 10 attacks for the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation champion. Teammates Stephanie Rivera and Neira Ortiz also made significant contributions, with Rivera notching seven attacks and a block, and Ortiz scoring seven points, including an ace.
Grace Mar Lopez, who stands at six feet, reflected on the team's preparation and cohesion. "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," Lopez stated. She also expressed excitement about the team's progress: "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 of the semifinal match between Vietnam, the Asian Volleyball Confederation Challenge Cup champion, and Czech Republic. The final match is scheduled for Sunday. The winner of the Challenger Cup will earn a coveted spot in next year's Volleyball Nations League.