Havana, June 30 (RHC) -- The women's handball final of the XXIV Central American and Caribbean Games San Salvador 2023, which demonstrated the courage of the Cuban women and their defensive power, can be described as a heartbreaking duel.

For goalkeeper Niurkis Mora, the team that defeated the Puerto Ricans 29 goals to 28 on Thursday night has always been characterized by the courage and dedication that distinguishes those born in the largest of the Antilles.

We are very strong on defense, our main weapon in this duel; we did not feel pressure because we "let it all out" in the semifinal match and enjoyed the game for the gold, said the player who in overtime was able to keep the minimal advantage of the team.

Although Puerto Rico beat us in the match for first place in the group, they knew that we were not going to sit back and go for the title, he said.

They have a style of play very similar to ours, fast," he added, "and the defensive work was based on closing the middle of the field, as they have a very experienced player there.

At the Don Bosco Multigymnasium in San Salvador, Gleinnys Reyes led the Cuban offense with 15 goals in 18 attempts.

I'm proud to play for the national team again; I always train hard and give my all," she said excitedly to the press after the challenge.

The volleyball players brought the first collective sports title in these games, with Yennifer Toledo and Dianny Gonzalez also standing out on offense.

With this title, Cuba surpassed the performance of Barranquilla 2018, where they won the bronze medal; in addition, both finalists qualified for the Pan American Games of Santiago de Chile 2023.