The Dominican Republic's Galia González led all scorers, with 16 points on nine attacks, three blocks and four serves, in a consummate 25-11, 25-21, 25-15 victory.

Dominican Republic coach Marcos Kwiek said: "A debut is always a debut, it's slow.

"What we need to do is keep focused, trying to reach our goals. 

"We know our level of play and today we gave the whole team an opportunity to get into the event, from there move forward."

Outside hitter Tamara Espinoza led Costa Rica with eight points. all in kills, while outside hitter Tatiana Sayles and middle blocker Mariana Rodríguez provided seven and six points respectively.

Rodríguez, who is also Costa Rica captain, said: "It’s a privilege to play against a team like the Dominican Republic; it’s a great opportunity that not every team has. 

"We had a good game.

"Obviously our margin of errors tends to be higher against teams like this because the pressure is too much. 

"We hope to keep growing to get to the matchup against Trinidad and Tobago which we’re looking forward to winning in this competition."

In the other Pool B match, Mexico overpowered Trinidad and Tobago, winning 25-13, 25-9, 25-10.

Andrea Rangel with top scored with 14 points, four of which were aces.

Jocelyn Urías, Mexico captain, said: "We are on the right path, this is a new process and we are highly motivated to compete at home. 

"The connection was just right between our setters and attackers; everything went smoothly, added to our strong serves that were too much for them."

In the third game on the first day of action, the United States lost a tense final set to Puerto Rico. 

Puerto Rico came from one set down to win 21-25, 28-26, 25-19, 21-25, 15-9, with opposite hitter Brittany Abbercombie and middle blocker Neira Ortiz leading the way on 17 points apiece.

Puerto Rico coach Fernando Morales said: "We are really glad especially because it’s our first game together; happy as well of how we performed because it’s a long tournament and we know we will improve every day. 

"It helps our confidence beating United States."

The competition continues tomorrow as Canada open their campaign against the US, Mexico face Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic play Trinidad and Tobago.