In a gripping World Baseball Classic (WBC) Group C matchup at Tokyo Dome on March 7, Japan edged out South Korea 8-6, marking their 11th consecutive victory over their Asian rivals.
Game Highlights
South Korea burst out of the gate, plating three runs in the first inning off Japan’s starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. The early outburst featured strong hits, including a key three-run rally that put pressure on the hosts. However, Japan responded resiliently, tying the score in the fourth with a home run among their eight runs allowed over four innings.
The contest remained tight, locked at 5-5 entering the seventh. South Korea’s Yoon Si-da Masataka delivered a two-run homer to Yoshida, but Japan capitalized in the bottom of the inning and added an insurance run in the eighth via a big chance. A late ninth-inning push fell short for South Korea.
Historical Context
This defeat extends Japan’s dominance, with their last loss to South Korea dating back to the 2015 Premier12 final (4-3 win for Korea). The Korean squad’s most recent defeat to Japan came in the 2017 APBC semifinals (7-8), fueling a streak now at 11 games.
Fan and Media Reactions
Japanese outlets highlighted the intensity, with Tokyo Sports calling it a “thrilling battle ending in Korea’s defeat,” Mainichi Shimbun noting Japan “overpowered Korea,” Fukuoka News observing Korea’s pride fell short in reality, and De Ansch describing the loss as a wake-up call for Korean fans still celebrating prematurely.
Despite the outcome, Korean supporters displayed remarkable spirit. Even as Japanese fans chanted, they countered with chants affirming “Japan fears us,” showcasing unwavering pride. One observer remarked that while some fans clutched score updates nervously, Korean supporters focused on the strength of their team’s intensity.
Ohtani’s Praise
Shohei Ohtani, speaking postgame in the official press conference, commended both sides: “Korea’s players are as solid as Japan’s, leaving a strong impression of a formidable lineup. It was a team that had us on the edge of our seats.”
