WBC fans erupt in euphoria as Czech Republic's ragtag squad vanquishes China for historic maiden win

World Baseball Classic (WBC) debutants Czech Republic were off to a flyer as they won their opening game in the tournament against Team China at the Tokyo Dome Stadium on Friday. This a momentous achievement for the Czech team, whose roster consists of semi-professional players. Fans were ecstatic at the occasion and voiced their excitement on Twitter.

The Czech Republic were off to a good start scoring their first runs in the very first inning. To make it worse for Team China, Matej Mensik scored the first ever home run for the Czechs. However, the Chinese rallied and were up by 1 by the end of the seventh inning, on the back of three single RBIs.

In a dramatic finish to the game, the Czech Republic were down by a run at the top of the ninth inning when Martin Muzik hit a three-run home run to snatch the lead back. The Czech pitching staff closed out the bottom of the ninth inning with three outs to seal a famous victory for the team.

Fans poured in their reactions on Twitter, overjoyed at the quality of baseball being played out at the WBC.

Fans also called out Team China, who were making their fifth appearance in the WBC, for their performance in the game.

Czech Republic have their work cut out in their remaining fixtures

After their game with Team China, Team Czech Republic would have their task cut out as they look to take on Samurai Japan. The Japanese are already off to a wonderful start beating China in 8-1 in their opening game. Today they take on the other heavyweights in the Pool, Team Korea who will look to bounce back from their upset loss against Australia.

The Czechs face South Korea on Sunday before capping off their Pool campaign against Team Australia, who, similarly, are already punching much above their weight. Pool B has heated up and it will be exciting to follow going forward.