DILI, 21 July 2025 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste’s women’s beach volleyball team clinched a thrilling 2-1 win over Mozambique in the ongoing 12th CPLP Games at Lecidere Arena, Dili.
Timor-Leste begin the match with intensity and focus, controlling the first set and narrowly defeating Mozambique 21-19 in a hard-fought battle.
Mozambique bounced back in the second set with aggressive tactics and improved coordination, overpowering Timor-Leste 21-12 to push the match into a decisive third set.
Under CPLP rules, the final set is played to 17 points, and Mozambique surged ahead with a commanding 14-3 lead, seemingly sealing the outcome.
However, the Timorese duo made an incredible comeback, driven by strong support from the home crowd, turning the game around to win the final set 17-15 in a thrilling finish.
Emotions ran high at the final whistle, with player Miguela Pereira Ximenes in tears as she expressed pride in the team’s resilience and determination to keep fighting.
“Even when we were far behind, we never gave up. This victory shows there’s still hope for us to go further,” said Miguela.
Her teammate Augusta Belo echoed the sentiment, dedicating the win to their supporters and highlighting the importance of learning from past defeats.
“Yesterday’s loss was painful, but today we fought back. We’re proud to represent Timor-Leste and we’re not done yet,” Augusta said.
Head coach and beach volleyball coordinator Mario Bento Soares admitted earlier losses were due to ineffective strategies, but praised the athletes’ fighting spirit and vowed to continue refining the team’s tactics.
“We’re still adjusting formations, but I believe with hard work, more wins are within reach,” Mario said.
Journalist: Arminda Fonseca
Editor: Maria Auxiliadora
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
