Team USA hold off Cuba to wrap up Pool D play and remain unbeaten in the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship.
Team USA will head into the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship undefeated after eliminating Cuba in four sets, 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 27-25, at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, September 17.
The Americans were powered by another strong outing by Jordan Ewert and Gabi Garcia, who combined for 24 points in just over two sets.
Cooper Robinson also had a power outing, actually leading the team in scoring with 14 points.
In control for the entire game, Team USA fielded their substitutes in the third frame, where Cuba looked poised to extend the match further.
But when Garcia came back to the taraflex, the 26-year-old spiker nearly powered the world no. 5 to an improbable comeback.
And while the Cubans eventually escaped with the set, the Americans banked on their run to fuel their fourth set push to seal the victory.
Team USA was able to field in 13 of their 14 players ahead of their Round of 16 duel on Monday, September 22, against either Slovenia or Germany.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.