Canada vs Puerto Rico 21:26 (9:14)

Canada and Puerto Rico went into the second match of the day, knowing that they had already booked their places in the quarter-finals. Nevertheless, the top of the group was still at stake and the teams put up a tough fight, with Puerto Rico defeating Canada 26:21.

Canada had a better start, claiming an early 4:1 lead but after they had found their rhythm, Puerto Rico proved that they could not be underestimated as it was the Caribbean nation who, only a few minutes later, were in front, 6:5 and steadily increased the gap, resulting in a five-goal lead at half-time (14:9).

Even though Canada put in their best efforts in the second half, they were not able to come closer than four goals and in the end, the five-goal difference was restored as Puerto Rico – who “prepared in training for the tactical game of the Canadian team” as coach Jalesky Garcia Padron said after the match – won 26:21.

Puerto Rico will play the team ranked second in group C in their quarter-final tomorrow, while Canada will face the team topping that group.

Jorge Nazario Santiago top-scored with 11 goals for Puerto Rico.

Photo: Ernesto Beltré