Sport|BaseballVenezuela defeat USA, win first World Baseball Classic championshipVenezuela upset the star-studded host nation to win a politically charged showdown in Miami.
On Tue, Mar 17, 2026, Venezuela secured a 3-2 victory over the United States in the World Baseball Classic final. Eugenio Suarez delivered the decisive hit in the ninth inning, leading Venezuela to its first championship in the tournament's history.
On Tue, Mar 17, 2026, Venezuela secured a 3-2 victory over the United States in the World Baseball Classic final. Eugenio Suarez delivered the decisive hit in the ninth inning, leading Venezuela to its first championship in the tournament's history.
Venezuela overcame a late-game tie by the USA, with Bryce Harper hitting a two-run homer in the eighth inning. Suarez's game-winning double occurred in the top of the ninth inning. Venezuela's Eduardo Rodriguez effectively managed the USA lineup, including prominent players such as Aaron Judge. The Venezuelan team maintained focus amidst various external pressures.
Venezuela's scoring started in the third inning, with Salvador Perez and Ronald Acuna Jr setting up Maikel Garcia's sacrifice fly. Wilyer Abreu extended the lead with a solo home run in the fifth inning. Despite a temporary setback from Harper's home run, Venezuela regained control in the ninth inning with Suarez's crucial hit.
On Tue, Mar 17, 2026, Venezuela secured a 3-2 victory over the United States in the World Baseball Classic final.
Venezuela's victory was confirmed when Daniel Palencia efficiently closed the game, securing the championship. This win marks a significant achievement for Venezuela in international baseball.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
