Ronald Acuña Jr., Maikel Garcia and Luis Arraez hit run-scoring, two-out singles in a rapid seventh-inning rally that sparked a 4-2 victory Monday night and vaulted Venezuela into a title matchup against the United States.

Italy plays Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic semifinals with Team USA already in the championship game. Here's a look at Italy's roster.

MIAMI (AP) — Francisco Cervelli believes Italy won't be sneaking up on opponents in three years at the next World Baseball Classic. “We are no longer the Cinderella,” the Italy manager said after the Azzurri were eliminated with a 4-2 semifinal loss to Venezuela on Monday night.

Italy jumped out to a big lead and stopped a late Puerto Rico comeback for an 8-3 win to reach the WBC semifinals

Italy is undefeated no more, as Venezuela ended its Cinderella run at the World Baseball Classic with a 4-2 win on Monday at loanDepot Park in Miami. The scrappy Italians held Venezuela to just one run in six innings before Venezuela came roaring back with a three-run seventh inning that put it in front for good.

The 2026 World Baseball Classic was a smashing success, with Team Venezuela being crowned the champions after defeating Team USA in the final game.

The surprising loss by the United States to Italy in the World Baseball Classic on Tuesday night means that the Americans need help to advance to the quarterfinals.

The magical run continues for undefeated Italy, which is heading to the WBC semifinals after holding of Puerto Rico on Saturday.