Sensational Guillen enables Dominican Republic’s major upset of Russia

Rosario, Argentina, August 26, 2017 - As in their wildest dreams, Dominican Republic pulled out a tremendous semifinal win over Russia to enter FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U18 World Championship gold medal match with a score of 3-0 (25-17, 28-26, 25-21).

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Dominican star Madeline Guillen uncorked 22 points distributed among all elements of the game, while captain Natalia Martinez was also fantastic with 16 tallies. Russia had to deal with a low spiking ratio along the game and the only player above the overall numbers of the team was Valeriya Shevchuk, with 16 points.

The Dominican side was bursting with confidence as a very efficient Martinez showed the path to the opening 25-17. The second set was another fine display of Dominican Republic, with Guillen and Martinez relentless and Feliz lending a hand, to win it 28-26 despite a streak of serves from Russia’s Soboleva that temporarily tied the scores. Russia blocked better on the next set, but also increased their errors and the Caribbean girls took advantage to 16-13 and 22-19, using smart tips behind the Russian block. The medal dream came true by 25-21 with a rock-solid Guillen block.