The Cuban duo of Noslen Díaz and Jorge Luis Alayo achieved their second victory this Tuesday in the Olympic beach volleyball tournament.
With a score of 2-0, they defeated the Brazilians Andre Loyola and George Souto, thus avenging their loss in the final of the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games against the same opponents.
The match, which took place in front of an enthusiastic crowd enduring temperatures close to 33 degrees Celsius, was a spectacle in which the Cubans demonstrated their superiority.
Alayo stood out as an impenetrable wall in the defense of the net, while Díaz covered the distant areas of the field.
The experienced Brazilians lost with wide scores of 21-13 and 21-18.
Unquestionable Dominance
With this victory, Díaz and Alayo, who made their debut on the Parisian stage with another impressive 2-0 against the Americans Andy Benesh and Miles Partain, solidify their undefeated leadership in Group D.
Their advance to the round of 16 is already secured, and they only need to face the Moroccans Mohammed Abicha and Zouheir Elgraoui to consolidate their dominance.
"We are surrounded by great athletes who support us, for example, Julio César, who is always encouraging us a lot... and if the great 'horses' are cheering us on, that's strength, never pressure," he stated in remarks to journalist Pavel Otero.
The leader of the Cuban duo explained that some strategic variations were practiced to face the South Americans, highlighting the importance of adapting and using all available tools to defeat their rivals.
The response from the French audience was warm, and the Cubans reciprocated the support received, expressing gratitude for the backing and looking forward to future performances with optimism.
Noslen highlighted the charisma of the French audience and the positive reception they usually receive around the world.
With four points, the Cuban duo leads the group momentarily, followed by the Brazilians with three points.
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