Bridge leads USA to fifth straight Paralympic final with win over Brazil, eye third consecutive gold Bridge leads USA to fifth straight Paralympic final with win over Brazil, eye third consecutive gold

The United States secured their place at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games women’s sitting volleyball final after a 3-1 (25-22, 22-25, 25-14, 25-15) victory over Brazil in Thursday’s semifinal at North Paris Arena. This win marks their fifth consecutive appearance in the final, keeping them on track for a third straight gold medal.

Kathryn Bridge led all scorers with a standout 21 points, including 15 attacks, four blocks, and two aces. Heather Erickson also played a key role, contributing 18 points from 13 attacks, four blocks, and an ace. On the Brazilian side, Eduarda de Oliveira (Duda) and Suellen Dellangelica Lima each tallied 14 points. USA dominated across all categories, recording 44 attacks, 16 blocks, and 11 aces.

USA started the first set strong, with Bridge and Erickson pushing their team to a 7-3 lead. Brazil fought back, with Janaina Petit Cunha delivering a powerful attack and two aces to level the score at 7-7. Petit’s serving gave Brazil a 9-7 edge, but USA regrouped, with Erickson and Bridge extending their lead to 15-10. Despite Brazil’s resistance, USA held firm, with Erickson’s cross-court swing giving them a 21-18 lead, and Kaleo Kanahele’s drop shot clinching the set 25-22.

In the second set, Bridge opened the scoring again, but Brazil found their stride, with Laina Rodrigues Batista and Suellen taking advantage of USA’s errors to surge ahead 16-8. USA tried to mount a comeback, but Duda’s three consecutive points pushed Brazil to set point at 24-18. Despite a late push from USA, Brazil held on to take the set 25-22.

USA dominated the third set from the start, jumping to a 7-1 lead as Brazil struggled to find momentum. Stellar net defence and consistent scoring from Bridge helped USA maintain a comfortable lead, closing out the set 25-14.

In the fourth set, Bridge continued her offensive dominance, helping USA establish a 10-4 lead. Despite efforts from Brazil, the USA extended their lead to 20-14, with Matthews and Edwards delivering back-to-back blocks to secure the final set 25-15, and with it, the match.

Photo: WPV/Sinisa Kanizaj.