Santa Fe, Argentina, August 22, 2017 - As an exciting and a very tough battle between two Norceca teams, the match between the United States and Mexico was one of the longest ones played in the FIVB Girls’ U18 World Championship in terms of time and intensity.
For Madison Kubik and coach Jim Stone now is time to prepare for next round.
Madison Kubik, Player of USA: “It was an exciting match, we really fight back in the fourth set after being down in the first two. The most important thing is that we overcome, we played like a group and we got the victory. I was on the bench and I came into the court to do my part and help the team because that is what I am here for, so I'm happy for that. We have to wait for our rival on the eight finals now, I expect we can play respecting our strategy.”
Jim Stone, Head Coach of USA: “I’m glad because sometimes when you won such a long set like the fourth was, you can go down in the following, but it didn't happen. We played very well on the last set, so I'm pleased with the comeback. Mexico is a very good team, their defense was amazing and they did some excellent plays today. We have so much respect for their staff and team, it was a good game for us to win and a hard match for them to lose. Eighth finals will be a big challenge for us and hopefully, we can compete as best as possible to give one more step.”
Natalie Nava Minjarez, Player of Mexico: “We were all together for this match, we didn't give up and we fight every ball until the end. I think we had to be more aggressive at the end to finally get the victory, but we have grown a lot. It was an amazing experience, we were united and even we couldn't win, we are satisfied with the way we played today.”
Ricardo de Jesus Naranjo, Head Coach of Mexico: “We're sad because we were too close, and that small difference means everything in a tournament like this and at this level. We couldn't solve the game in one play and we lost the qualification to be among the best 16 teams in the world. We have our heart in peace, but our head burning since the girls grew as sport-women and players and that's part of being in a World Championship.”