Korea Falls to Japan 8-6 in WBC, Faces Must-Win Game Against Taiwan
TOKYO – Japan defeated South Korea 8-6 in a thrilling World Baseball Classic matchup at Tokyo Dome on Saturday, . The victory improves Japan’s record to 2-0 in Pool C, while South Korea falls to 1-1.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, highlighted by a barrage of home runs from both sides. Japan’s offensive explosion in the fourth inning proved to be the difference, with Seiya Suzuki and Masataka Yoshida each launching their second home runs of the game.
South Korea jumped out to an early lead, scoring three runs in the top of the first inning against Japan starter Yusei Kikuchi. However, Suzuki quickly answered with a two-run homer in the bottom half of the inning, cutting the deficit to 3-2.
The fourth inning saw Japan take control. Shohei Ohtani tied the game with a solo home run, his second of the tournament. Suzuki followed with another home run, giving Japan a 4-3 lead. Yoshida then extended the lead with yet another solo shot, making it 5-3.
South Korea battled back, tying the game at 5-5 in the fifth inning on a two-run home run by Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Hyeseong Kim. The score remained tied until the bottom of the seventh, when Japan rallied to take the lead.
Japan loaded the bases with one out in the seventh, and Suzuki drew a walk to bring in a run. Yoshida then followed with a single, scoring two more runs and extending Japan’s lead to 8-5.
South Korea attempted a late comeback, scoring a run in the eighth inning, but Japan closer Taisei Ota shut the door in the ninth to secure the victory.
Ohtani finished the game 2-for-2 with a home run, two walks, and three runs scored. Through two games in the 2026 WBC, Ohtani is batting .833 (5-for-6) with two home runs and six RBIs. He was the MVP of the 2023 tournament.
Despite a strong offensive showing, the game wasn’t without its tense moments for Japan. Manager Hirokazu Ibata’s strategy of aggressive offense, capitalizing on opportunities to hit with runners in scoring position, proved crucial. The team’s ability to respond immediately after falling behind demonstrated a resilience that will be vital as the tournament progresses.
For South Korea, the loss is a setback in their quest to advance to the knockout stage. Manager Ryu Ji-hyun had emphasized the importance of a well-executed plan, referring to the concept of “gyeongcheonwiji” – comprehensive organization and governance – in preparing for the tournament. However, the team struggled to contain Japan’s powerful offense, particularly in the pivotal fourth and seventh innings.
A key moment came in the seventh inning when Korea intentionally walked Ohtani with two outs and runners on first and third. The move backfired as the subsequent walk and Yoshida’s single allowed Japan to pad their lead. The decision to bring in left-handed pitcher Kim Young-kyu to face Ohtani, and then leave him in to face Yoshida, proved costly.
The game also highlighted the importance of Japan’s veteran leadership. Suzuki, returning to the WBC after missing the 2023 tournament due to injury, provided a significant offensive boost. His two home runs were a clear indication of his impact on the team.
Looking ahead, Japan will face Australia () in a crucial Pool C matchup. Both teams are currently undefeated, and the winner will be in a strong position to win the pool. South Korea will need to rebound quickly, facing Chinese Taipei on and then Australia on , to have a chance at advancing.
The loss marks Japan’s eleventh consecutive victory over South Korea, a streak dating back to 2015. South Korea has not defeated Japan since a Premier12 semi-final win in 2015.