USA vs Venezuela: 2026 World Baseball Classic Championship Preview & Scores

MIAMI – Venezuela is heading to the World Baseball Classic championship game for the first time in program history, securing a 4-2 victory over Italy in a tightly contested semifinal matchup at loanDepot Park on Monday night. The win sets up a highly anticipated clash with Team USA on Tuesday, a rematch of a compelling 2023 quarterfinal contest.

Italy jumped out to an early lead, capitalizing on a shaky start from Venezuelan starter Keider Montero. A bases-loaded walk in the second inning brought home the game’s first run, followed by a groundout that extended the Italian advantage to 2-0. However, Venezuela’s offense, spearheaded by a dynamic lineup featuring Ronald Acuña Jr. And Eugenio Suárez, gradually chipped away at the deficit.

Suárez ignited the Venezuelan comeback in the fourth inning, launching a solo home run over the left-field fence to cut the Italian lead in half. The pivotal moment arrived in the seventh inning, as Venezuela exploded for three runs, turning the game in their favor. Acuña Jr. Sparked the rally with an infield single, beating the throw to first and igniting a surge of energy through the Venezuelan dugout and the stands. Maikel Garcia followed with an RBI single, and Luis Arraez added another, extending the lead to 4-2.

The Venezuelan bullpen effectively shut down Italy’s offense in the late innings, preserving the lead and securing the historic victory. The team’s ability to rally in the seventh, coupled with strong pitching, proved to be the difference.

Team USA advanced to the final after defeating the Dominican Republic 2-1 on Sunday night, also at loanDepot Park. Solo home runs from Gunnar Henderson and Roman Anthony provided the offensive firepower for the Americans, while their pitching staff managed to contain a potent Dominican lineup that had been impressive throughout the tournament.

The championship game promises to be a compelling contest between two teams hungry for their first WBC title. Team USA, despite a somewhat shaky run through pool play, is considered the favorite, with odds of -320 to win the championship, according to FanDuel. Venezuela, however, is a dangerous opponent, boasting a lineup capable of explosive offensive production and a resilient spirit demonstrated throughout the tournament, currently holding +210 odds.

Team USA’s path to the final wasn’t without its challenges. After finishing second in Pool B with a 3-1 record, they narrowly avoided elimination when Italy defeated Mexico on Wednesday. A Mexico win would have sent the Americans home early. The U.S. Secured wins over Brazil and Great Britain before a close contest against Mexico and a surprising loss to Italy.

Venezuela’s journey to the final included an upset victory over Japan in the quarterfinals, adding to their momentum and confidence. Their qualification for the Olympics, also recently achieved, underscores the growing strength of Venezuelan baseball.

The 2026 World Baseball Classic bracket has now been finalized, with the championship game set to capture place on Tuesday evening at 8 p.m. ET on FS1. The matchup features a clash of baseball powerhouses, with both teams eager to etch their names in WBC history. The game will pit Venezuelan stars like Acuña Jr., Suárez, and Jackson Chourio against American standouts such as Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, and Bobby Witt Jr.

Venezuela’s victory over Italy is not only a significant achievement for the team but also a source of national pride. The passionate Venezuelan fans in Miami created an electric atmosphere, fueling their team’s comeback and celebrating a historic moment for the nation’s baseball program. The team’s success reflects the dedication and talent of Venezuelan players who have made a significant impact on Major League Baseball.

The semifinal results underscore the increasing competitiveness of the World Baseball Classic, with teams from around the globe demonstrating their ability to challenge traditional baseball powers. Italy’s impressive run through the tournament, culminating in a strong showing against Venezuela, highlights the growing strength of baseball in Europe. The tournament continues to serve as a platform for showcasing international talent and fostering a global passion for the sport.