With three points, five sets won and seven lost, the Dominicans are in third place in Pool C and are confirmed as one of the two best third-placed sides, then advancing to the quarterfinals. Japan and the United States are the two candidates to claim the last spot in play.
"We knew this was the most important match for us in pool play and that it wasn't going to be easy," setter Niverka Marte reflected. "We talked before the match that we'd need everyone to win it and that's what happened. We played as a team and it was great to see everybody performing well. We tried to keep our minds strong after losing the first two matches, but we wanted this victory very much. I'm confident in my team and let's see what comes up next."
Outside hitter Yonkaira Peña was huge for the Dominicans, leading the team on the court with 28 points (26 kills, two aces). Also contributing to their victory were middle blocker Jineiry Martinez, with 13 points (nine kills, three blocks, one ace), and her sister, outside hitter Brayelin Martinez, who registered nine. Liberto Brenda Castillo was also a defensive machine for the team, getting 26 digs.
"The Netherlands are a good team and entering the court knowing we had to win to advance made the match even harder," outside hitter Bethania De La Cruz, who came off the bench to produce seven points, commented. "We knew what we needed and fought until the end to get the win. They had some set points in the fourth set, but it only ends when it's over, so kept fighting and working for it. I was happy to help the team today playing in two different positions."
