Wednesday, October 25, 2023.- The Chilean beach volleyball team, composed of cousins Esteban and Marcos Grimalt, won 2-0 against Canada (Jack Macneil and Alexander Russel) and secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago.
In a closely contested match, the Chilean team won the first set 23-21 and the second set 21-18 against the Canadian team, which is ranked fifth in the world.
"We didn't feel comfortable, and it was challenging to get into our most important function, which is the attack. However, the support of the crowd was crucial for us to get into the game and advance to the next phase where we can compete for a medal," commented Esteban Grimalt after the victory.
Regarding the upcoming match against the Brazilian duo of André Loyola and Wanderley Souto, Esteban Grimalt said, "We know Brazil well. We have won and lost many times against them because we have faced them on numerous occasions. We need to step up, and the one who plays better will win. We'll give it our all."
Finally, when asked about the support from the audience at the Centro de Voleibol Playa in Peñalolén, he highlighted, "The support is a big help. It's a prime time that excites people, and since everyone has finished work, they can watch from their homes. We are really enjoying it."
Written by Marcelo Hernández; translated by Andrés Castro / Santiago 2023 via Photosport
Photo: Jonnathan Oyarzún / Santiago 2023 via Photosport