Venezuela Stun United States to Win World Baseball Classic

Eugenio Suarez drove in the winning run in the top of the ninth inning to seal a dramatic final in Miami that had taken place against a backdrop of political tension.

Trailing for most of the game, the USA -- boasting a roster widely described as the most talented line-up ever assembled -- looked to have hauled themselves back into the contest when Bryce Harper blasted a game-tying two-run homer in the eighth inning.

But Harper's salvo proved to be in vain as Venezuela regained the lead in the ninth inning, punishing a shaky performance from US reliever Garrett Whitlock to clinch victory.

"What can I say, it's amazing," Venezuela hero Suarez said.

"Nobody believed in Venezuela but now we win the championship today. This is a celebration for all the Venezuelan country."

Suarez's winning double settled a final that had got under way in a raucous atmosphere at Miami's LoanDepot Park, with a large contingent of Venezuela fans booing the USA lineup during pre-game introductions.

- AFP