The US national team recorded a convincing 3:0 (25:21, 25:21, 25:19) victory over Cuba in a match from the second week of the Volleyball Nations League, played in Orleans (France).
The Americans controlled the development of the match throughout and deservedly reached their fourth success since the start of the tournament. After this victory, the US team now has 4 wins, 1 loss, and 12 points, which lifts them to second place in the VNL temporary standings.
The success also brought a significant bonus in the world ranking. The Americans gained 4.05 points and advanced one position to third place in the world ranking with a total of 335.68 points.
For Cuba, the defeat is their fifth in a row since the start of the competition. The Caribbean team remains the only one without a win in the VNL and is firmly in last place in the standings. Additionally, the Cubans lost one position in the world ranking and are now 17th with 208.18 points.
The US victory has a double value
– besides solidifying the team's place among the VNL leaders, it returned the Americans to the Top 3 in world volleyball. For Cuba, the situation is becoming increasingly alarming, as the team continues to accumulate losses and lose positions both in the tournament and in the world hierarchy.
Match Statistics
| Category | Cuba | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 36 | 35 |
| Block | 4 | 10 |
| Ace | 4 | 1 |
| Points from opponent errors | 17 | 29 |
| Total points | 61 | 75 |
Although Cuba scored one more point in attack (36 vs 35) and was more effective from the serve (4 aces vs 1), the Americans made a huge difference in blocking, where they dominated with 10 points vs 4. Additionally, the Cubans made too many inaccuracies, which brought a total of 29 points to the USA from opponent errors compared to only 17 for the Caribbeans.
| Category | Cuba | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Digs | 36 | 40 |
| Receptions | 60 | 44 |
| Organized attacks | 82 | 64 |
The USA demonstrated better defensive organization with 40 saved balls in defense against 36 for Cuba. Although the Cubans had more receptions and rallies, they failed to convert these statistics into effectiveness. The Americans were significantly more efficient in key moments and punished every weakness of their opponent.
Haynes became the top scorer for the winners with 14 points, while Defalco added 10. For Cuba, the best scorer was Masso with 11 points, while Concepcion finished with 9.
Photo:volleyballworld.com
