Japan enters the quarterfinals having gone a perfect 4-0 in Pool C in Tokyo. Despite Venezuela's strength, a loss in this round would have to be considered a letdown for the three-time champions, who are hoping to go back-to-back for the first time since winning the first two Classics in 2006 and ‘09.

The top spot in Pool D at the 2026 World Baseball Classic is on the line on the final day of pool play, as Venezuela takes on the Dominican Republic. The World Baseball Classic is back for the first time since 2023.

Venezuela and the Dominican Republic met for the sixth time in WBC history with the Pool D championship at stake.

Italy's magic-carpet ride in Houston continued as the Azzurri are heading to the World Baseball Classic semifinals for the first time.

It will be Team USA against the Dominican Republic in the first semifinal of the 2026 World Baseball Classic after a close win by the former and a blowout win by the latter. Team USA defeated Canada 5-3 on Friday to move a win away from a repeat appearance in the WBC championship game.