Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 11, 2019 - Team Mexico were defeated in three sets by Cuba in the last game of Tokyo Volleyball Qualification Pool E. Both teams failed to qualify for next year's Olympic tournament.
Jorge Azair, head coach of team Mexico: "I was quite tranquil tonight, because we showed quite a good performance. We didn’t win but that victory wouldn’t have any tournament sense. So I used the opportunity to try my young players in action. And I liked their attitude. Lots of people supported us in this game and that is very nice especially if you play far away from home."
Pedro Rangel, captain of team Mexico: "We had a good match, and were very close to take the second and the third sets. Probably we just needed some more luck tonight."
Jesus Herrera, opposite of team Cuba: "It could seem from the stands that the game was quite an easy one for us. But actually we just know this opponent well enough as we play frequently in regional tournaments. I’m upset that we didn’t qualify here, but I think it could be easier in January as we will play in America and there will be no monster teams like Russia and Iran."
Nicolas Vives, head coach of team Cuba: "This game can’t be compared to yesterday’s. Some of my players were relaxed and even demotivated because they didn’t qualify to the Olympics. I would also like to say thank you to the Saint Petersburg fans, surprisingly we found a big and warm support here. It’s a pity that I didn’t have time to walk around and talk to people."