Wednesday, November 1st.- Brazil arrived at Santiago 2023 with a single-minded goal: to reclaim the Pan American Male's Volleyball title they last held after their fourth victory at Guadalajara 2011. This determination was further fueled by their recent loss to Argentina in the final of the South American Championship in Recife, a defeat that rocked the team to the point where legendary coach Renan Dal Zotto resigned.

However, in Santiago, the green and yellow team seems to have reasserted their regional dominance, making a powerful impact at the Arena Parque O'Higgins. This morning, they secured their spot in the semifinals after defeating Cuba and topping Group A in the competition, in front of around 10,000 spectators at the venue located in Santiago Centro.

The first set brought challenges for the three-time Olympic champion due to Cuba's strong organization, but they managed to make a comeback and secured the set with a score of 25-23. The second set left no doubts, and the Cubans displayed weaknesses well exploited by Darlan and Henrique Honorato to seal a score of 25-16.

The third set marked a decline for the Brazilians, as they conceded a set in the tournament for the first time (25-18). Meanwhile, Cuba gained momentum, thanks to their star player, Miguel Ángel López Castro. The comeback was finalized with the fourth set going in favor of the Caribbean team. Despite some service errors, Cuba took the set with a score of 27-25.

Everything came down to the fifth set. Cuba had a match point, but Brazil showcased its favorite status and their blocking skills prevailed at the right moment. They turned the game around and secured a victory with considerable tension, winning the set 18-16.

As a result, Brazil is the first team to secure a spot in the semifinals, eagerly awaiting their opponents for the highly anticipated gold medal match. Cuba will compete in the quarterfinals, awaiting their entry into the top four against an opponent to be determined later in the afternoon, as the Group B outcome is decided. Argentina, the favorite to lead the group, is set to face Chile this evening.

Written by Arturo Manfred Schwager y Nicolás Olea; translated by Felipe Vergara / Photosport
Photo by Karin Pozo/Santiago 2023 / Photosport