Thursday, November 23rd, 2023.- The Chilean female's wheelchair basketball team achieved their only victory at the Santiago 2023 Parapan American Games, securing the seventh position in the discipline after defeating El Salvador at the Polideportivo 1 at the Parque Estadio Nacional.

The local team had a solid performance, comfortably defeating the Central American team 46-28 to finish in the second-to-last position in the Americas. In reflection, Chilean player Daniela Alegría was self-critical but appreciated the accomplishment.

"Perhaps we didn't achieve the goal we had, but we moved up a spot because at Lima, we finished last. So I'm happy about that. Our crucial game was against Peru (the last match of Group B, a 44-47 defeat). We were close, but things happen on the court, you win or you lose," she acknowledged.

Nevertheless, the Chilean team improved their record against El Salvador. "In this game, we gave it our all, it showed in our endurance, and the score wasn't close, so I'm content with the team's performance. Every process is a learning experience; we had the technical and tactical aspects clear, but we lack conversion and psychological work, dealing with nerves and doing things right," Alegría added.

On the Central American side, Katia Juárez commented, "We gave what we could as a team, and I emphasize: I know there's a lot to improve. These were my first Parapan American Games, and I take away a beautiful experience, beautiful Chile, its lovely people. But when it comes to the game, we have a lot to work on as a team."

Written by Patricio Hernández y Nicolás Olea; translated by Pía Barriga Ferry / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Karin Pozo / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport