WBC fans shocked after Team Italy stuns Cuba in extra-innings thriller

Team Italy won their opening game of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, defeating Cuba 6-3 in extra innings. The game ended in thrilling fashion.

Team Italy took a 1-0 lead in the sixth inning and added another in the seventh. That two-run lead was shortlived, with Cuba scoring a run in the seventh and eighth each to tie the game. John Valente played the role of the hero as his single in the 10th drove in Sal Frelick to give Italy a 3-2 lead. Nicky Lopez singled late in the inning to drive in two more runs.

Baseball fans took to the Twitter comments section to express their thoughts. The Cubans have now lost both their games and may finish last in the group. The Italians were resiliant and their fans had reason to be excited.

For a nation that is mostly known for its talented soccer players, this was a historic win for Italy.

Many Italian fans took joy in Cuba's misfortune. Several memes mocked the the nation that was once a powerhouse in the world of baseball. One fan even used a video of Tony Soprano to express his joy.

Team Italy will look to qualify from Pool A after upseting Cuba 6-3 in extra innings

Sal Frelick of Team Italy scores afterJohn Valentin hit a RBI single at the top of the 10th inning at Taichung Intercontinental Baseball Stadium

The win will be a major boost for Italy and leaves the group wide open. The team is managed by former New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Mike Piazza. He is a former 12-time All-Star and a 10-time Silver Slugger Award winner. His experience will be invaluable to an Italian team that is looking to make their mark at the World Baseball Classic.

Cuba, who were one of the favorites to win the group, have lost both their opening games.

Italy will face Chinese Taipei and Panama in their next two games. Their final game will be on March 12 against a strong Netherlands team that has won both their games. That last game may be critical in deciding who makes it out of this group.