Venezuela Wins the World Baseball Classic Title Beating the USA 3-2. Caracas Erupts in Celebration
Venezuela defeated the United States 3-2 and won its first World Baseball Classic, unleashing massive celebrations in Caracas and throughout the country.
Thousands of Venezuelans celebrated on Tuesday in the streets of Caracas and other cities the 3-2 victory of their team over the United States in the final of the World Baseball Classic in Miami, which was broadcast on giant screens in different squares of the capital. Shouts, applause, music and percussion groups were heard in different parts of the capital, such as Plaza Francia in the east and Plaza de los Museos in the west, where the mayoral offices organized events for the population to see the game live. “We deserve this victory to show the world that we are truly people of kindness, love, and quality of play,” said Gerardo Olivier, a physical education teacher, while celebrating in Caracas.
Olivier admitted to feeling “down” when the United States tied the game in the eighth inning, but decided to trust his team. He asserted that this victory demonstrates that Venezuelans are people who have “a heart willing to fight.” Josefina Taide, visibly moved, said she was “overjoyed” and thanked God for the victory. Caravans of motorcyclists and vehicles toured Caracas waving the national flag, while fans celebrated by dancing to the drum, a Venezuelan cultural tradition.
Venezuela established itself as the best baseball team on the planet after defeating the United States team 3-2 in Miami and winning its first World Baseball Classic, driven by a double from Eugenio Suárez in the ninth inning, when the game was tied at 2.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared Wednesday a ‘national day of celebration’, a non-working day with the exception of essential services. She also invited the public to participate in a “grand concert”. The opposition, led by María Corina Machado, also celebrated the Venezuelan victory and congratulated the team on their first title. It was Venezuela’s first final and first championship in the World Baseball Classic, after beating the United States 3-2 in Miami.
