Dominican Republic Falls 3-1 to U.S. in NORCECA Final Six

The United States remained unbeaten at the NORCECA Final Six 2026 with a 3-1 victory over the Dominican Republic on Wednesday at the Juan Fernández Albarrán Sports Unit in Zinacantepec, State of Mexico. The Americans won 25-19, 25-20, 23-25, 27-25 to improve to 3-0, while the Dominican Republic fell to 1-2.

The match was decided by a narrow statistical advantage for the United States, which finished ahead in attacks, 60-54, and blocks, 10-7. The Americans also recorded three service aces to the Dominican Republic’s one. Both teams committed 27 unforced errors.

United States Takes Control Early

Caitlin Baird led the United States with 19 points, including 17 attacks and two blocks. Onyedikachi Ofoegbu added 16 points, with three blocks, while Samantha Francis scored 14 and Claire Hoffman contributed 13.

The United States controlled the opening two sets, establishing the advantage that ultimately proved decisive. The Dominican Republic struggled to close the gap early but responded with a stronger performance in the third set.

Alondra Tapia was the match’s leading scorer with 20 points for the Dominican Republic. She recorded 16 kills, three blocks and one ace. Flormarie Heredia finished with 12 points, while Yanlis Félix added 11.

Dominican Republic Extends the Match

The third set developed into a tight contest. With the score tied at 23-23, the Dominican Republic claimed the final two points to force a fourth set. Tapia completed the set with an attack, giving her team the momentum it needed to keep the match alive.

The fourth set produced another extended battle. The United States appeared to be in control after opening a 21-15 lead, but the Dominican Republic fought back to level the score at 23-23.

The teams continued exchanging points until 25-25. Oluwatoyosi Onabanjo then put the United States ahead with a block, and Ella Powell followed with another block to close out the set 27-25 and secure the American victory.

Dominican Republic Faces Puerto Rico Next

The Dominican Republic will return to action Thursday against Puerto Rico at 6 p.m., with another opportunity to improve its 1-2 record in the tournament. The United States will face host Mexico at 8 p.m. as it seeks to maintain its unbeaten start.

Baird said the United States expected a competitive match and credited the team’s ability to stay together when the Dominican Republic responded. Tapia, meanwhile, said the Dominican side had played well despite the result and identified execution and rushed plays as areas the team needs to improve.