Monday, October 23rd.- The failure of Brazil in female volleyball at the Pan American Games 2019 in Lima seems to be a thing of the past. Zé Roberto Guimarães' team won their third group stage match, not dropping a single set, and appears to be on a clear path to reclaim the Pan American title in the sport after twelve years. 

The two-time Olympic champions defeated Puerto Rico 3-0, with set scores of 25-15, 25-22, and 25-21, and advanced to the semifinals with a superb performance. They previously won in straight sets against Cuba and Argentina, who will compete to determine the second team to advance from the group later today. 

The offensive firepower of Sabrina Machado and Cristina Basso in Brazil proved unstoppable for the Puerto Rican team. Brazil maintained a strong attack (42 percent compared to their opponent's 34 percent) and used their first match point to confirm the victory and secure a spot in the final four. 

"We had a bit of difficulty with ball rotation at the beginning, but then everything flowed smoothly, and we emerged victorious. We are used to this crowd because the people of Brazil always support us when we play, but the Pan American Games are very significant, and it is an honor to represent Brazil," said Machado, who plays for Flamengo. 

The evening's highlight will be the battle for the second spot in Group B between Chile and Mexico 8:30 p.m. In the lead-up, the group winner, the Dominican Republic, will face Colombia, who have already been eliminated, in a rematch of the last Pan American final. 

Written by Nicolás Olea; translated by Vicente Valdivia and edited by Pia Barriga / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Ph: Dante Fernandez / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport