Istanbul, Turkey – The Dominican Republic women’s volleyball team, famously known as the “Queens of the Caribbean,” clinched a thrilling 3-2 win over South Korea on Sunday, wrapping up the second phase of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League with a balanced 2-2 record. The victory brings the team’s overall tally to four wins and four losses, currently placing them ninth in the global standings.
In a tightly contested five-set battle (19-25, 25-17, 19-25, 25-20, 16-14), the Dominican squad showcased depth and resilience. Star attacker Brayelin Martínez led the charge with 24 points, followed by strong contributions from Gaila González with 22 points and Yonkaira Peña with 17. Geraldine González added 11 crucial points and anchored the defense with key blocks. On the Korean side, Seoyoung Yuk and Sohwi Kang each tallied 20 points, while Seonwoo chipped in with 16.
The Dominicans overcame notable setbacks, including the absence of veteran middle blockers Jineirys Martínez and Cándida Arias, and an in-game injury to libero Yaneiris Rodríguez. Stepping up under pressure, Larismel Martínez took over the libero role and delivered a reliable performance on defense.
The match was a showcase of shifting momentum. Korea claimed the first and third sets with aggressive play and disciplined defense. However, the Dominicans rallied in the second and fourth sets, powered by clutch attacks from Martínez and Peña. In the decisive fifth set, the Queens of the Caribbean edged out Korea in a nail-biting 16-14 finish, sealing a much-needed victory.
The team now heads back to Santo Domingo for a brief training camp before continuing their Nations League campaign. Their next match is scheduled against powerhouse China on July 10, as the tournament enters its third phase.
