Venezuela Defeats Japan and Advances to the Semi-Finals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic
MIAMI – The Venezuelan baseball team put on a memorable performance by defeating Japan with a score of 8-5, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The exciting match took place at loanDepot Park.
The game was characterized by an exchange of blows between two world baseball powers. Ronald Acuña Jr., representing Venezuela, opened the scoring with a solo home run in the first inning. The Japanese response was immediate, and Shohei Ohtani tied the score with another home run in the same inning.
Japan took the lead in the third inning, building an offense that allowed them to go up 5-2, thanks to the hits of Teruaki Sato and Shota Morishita.
Venezuela reacted in the fifth inning, with Maikel García connecting a two-run home run that brought his team closer. The comeback was completed in the following inning, when Wilyer Abreu hit a three-run homer, turning the score around and putting Venezuela ahead 7-5.
The Venezuelan bullpen played a crucial role in keeping the Japanese offense at bay in the final innings, securing the victory. The relievers managed to contain the Asian champions, highlighting their performance.
The last out of the game came with Shohei Ohtani at bat, thus sealing one of the most significant victories for Venezuela in the history of the tournament.
With this triumph, Venezuela advances to the semifinals, where it will face Italy. The match is scheduled for this Sunday in Miami.
This victory equals Venezuela’s best historical performance in the World Baseball Classic, repeated since 2009, and now the ninth vinotinto team aims to reach the final for the first time.
