Full Breakdown
Venezuela Advances to First WBC Final, Defeating Italy 4-2
3/18/2026, 4:51:15 AM
Semifinal Showdown: Venezuela vs. Italy
In a thrilling semifinal match at the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), Venezuela overcame Italy with a score of 4-2, securing its first-ever appearance in the WBC final. The game took place at loanDepot Park in Miami on March 16, 2026. Italy, which had been the tournament's surprise team, initially took a 2-0 lead but could not maintain it as Venezuela rallied in the seventh inning.
Italy's scoring began in the second inning when J.J. D’Orazio walked home a run, followed by a forceout that allowed another run to score, giving Italy a 2-0 advantage. Venezuela responded in the fourth inning with a solo home run from Eugenio Suárez, narrowing the gap to 2-1. However, it was the seventh inning that proved decisive. With two outs, Jackson Chourio's single set the stage for Ronald Acuña Jr. to tie the game with an infield single. Maikel Garcia then hit a single to bring Chourio home, followed by Luis Arraez, who drove in Acuña, culminating in a three-run rally that secured Venezuela's victory.
Italy's Remarkable Journey
Despite the loss, Italy's performance throughout the tournament has been noteworthy. The team, comprised of MLB stars and players with Italian heritage, finished the tournament with a 5-1 record, including a stunning victory over Team USA in pool play. Italy's captain, Vinnie Pasquantino, expressed pride in the team's achievements, emphasizing the impact they hope to have on baseball's popularity in Italy. "We weren’t successful on the field tonight, but we were successful in Italy," he stated.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the match, Italy's manager, Francisco Cervelli, remarked on the team's growth, stating, "We are no longer the Cinderella. In three years, they are going to take us seriously." He highlighted the potential for the young players to build on this experience for future tournaments. Pasquantino echoed this sentiment, encouraging fans to continue supporting baseball in Italy.
What's Next: WBC Final
Venezuela will face Team USA in the WBC final on March 18, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET. The U.S. team, which has reached the final for the third consecutive time, will be looking to reclaim the title after losing to Japan in the previous tournament. Venezuelan pitcher Eduardo Rodríguez is expected to start against U.S. pitcher Nolan McLean, who previously faced challenges against Italy during pool play.
Criticism & Opposition
While Italy's roster has been celebrated for its diversity, some critics have pointed out that many players are Italian-Americans who have never played in Italy. Pasquantino acknowledged this criticism but expressed hope that the team's success would inspire a new generation of players in Italy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We just wanted to make sure we waved and thanked, one, the Venezuelan fans who were here tonight,” — Vinnie Pasquantino, Captain of Italy
- “What they experienced today, they are going to take it away from the rest of their lives, a spectacular noise at the stadium, and my team was spectacular, fantastic, a group of friends, guys that support each other.” — Francisco Cervelli, Manager of Italy
- “It’s been cool to see how he goes about his business,” — Paul Skenes, Pitcher for Team USA, on Aaron Judge
Venezuela's victory marks a significant milestone in its baseball history, setting the stage for an exciting final against the United States.
