Running on Sheer Joy, Venezuela Dances Into WBC Semifinal by Stunning Japan

No team is having more fun at the World Baseball Classic than the South American nation, which injected even more energy into the tourney by eliminating the defending champs.

Venezuela rallies to beat Shohei Ohtani and defending champ Japan 8-5, advance to WBC semis

MIAMI (AP) — Wilyer Abreu hit a go-ahead, three-run homer after Maikel Garcia sparked the comeback with a two-run shot, and Venezuela beat Shohei Ohtani and defending champion Japan 8-5 in the World Baseball Classic on Saturday night to advance to the semifinals.

Wilyer Abreu uncorks epic bat flip after putting Venezuela ahead in stunning WBC upset against Japan

In a World Baseball Classic already filled with cinematic moments, with epic home run celebrations and moments capturing the magnitude of these games on the international stage, Wilyer Abreu just added another one to the list.

Japan vs. Venezuela Live Updates: WBC Quarterfinals Starting Lineups

The Shohei Ohtani-led Japan squad attempts to punch their ticket to the World Baseball Classic semifinals.

Everything Shohei Ohtani Said About Japan's Stunning Loss to Venezuela in 2026 WBC Bracket

Japan star Shohei Ohtani lamented a "really frustrating" outcome to the team's World Baseball Classic title defense.

Japan’s World Baseball Classic once again ended with Ohtani. This time, with a loss

Ohtani hit a first-inning home run but also struck out twice and had the game-ending flyout in Japan’s quarterfinal loss to Venezuela.