Overview

• The United States defeated Japan 2–0 in the final at Okinawa Cellular Stadium Naha, handing Japan its first loss and taking a record-extending 11th championship.
• Japan reached the title game at 8–0, including extra-inning wins over the U.S. and a 6–5 walk-off squeeze against Panama after erasing a four-run deficit.
• Across the tournament Japan emphasized execution, totaling 10 sacrifice bunts and 13 steals, with leadoff hitter Hiyuma Okabe posting a .594 on-base percentage.
• Japan’s staff compiled a 0.86 ERA and a deep rotation featured standout Ryosuke Sueyoshi, while the lineup hit .286 with timely contributions from the middle order.
• Manager Masayoshi Ogura praised the team’s cohesion and accountability after the defeat, having earlier acknowledged regret over a late pitching change in the Panama game, and lauded players’ growth throughout the run.