WATCH: First baseman Martin Muzik pulls off spectacular play to keep Team Czech Republic in the game against Team Japan

Team Czech Republic has been the surprise story of the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Not much was expected from the central European nation with a population of just over 10 million. The Czechs, however, are proving the doubters wrong.

The Czech Republic won their opening game in stunning fashion against China. Martin Muzik was the hero on that occasion. His late three-run home run in the ninth inning was enough to secure a memorable 8-5 win for Team Czech Republic.

Muzik has been one of the standout players at the World Baseball Classic. The 26-year-old continued his good form in their game versus Japan on Saturday.

The first baseman pulled off a spectacular play to rob speedster Lars Nootbaar of what was likely an easy double. Nootbaar must have been certain he had a hit before Muzik's perfectly timed dive. Muzik followed it up with a pinpoint throw to first.

The play came at a critical moment with the Czech Republic holding on to a slender 1-0 lead.

Martin Muzik and Team Czech Republic continue impressive form at the 2023 World Baseball Classic

Marek Minarik celebrates the team's victory in the World Baseball Classic Pool B game between Czech Republic and China at Tokyo Dome

The Czech Republic's victory against China was historic for the nation. The come-from-behind win secured them automatic qualification to the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The game against Team Japan will be a test of how far this team has come. They took the lead early in the game and managed to keep the Japanese bats quiet during the early portion of the game.

A loss to Shohei Ohtani and team Japan would not be devastating for Team Czech Republic. The Japanese roster is stacked with MLB and NPB stars. A loss means the Czech Republic will likely have to win one of their remaining games versus Korea or Australia to progress.

Playing in a hostile environment at the Tokyo Dome against one of the strongest teams in the tournament will be a historic occasion for the Czech players. It will also be a great learning experience in preparation for the 2026 WBC.