In brief
In Dakar, Cuba’s Baseball5 squad claimed the title at the 2026 Youth Olympics, defeating Chinese Taipei 2‑0 in the final with set scores of 2‑1 and 7‑1. The victory avenged a group‑stage loss and capped a tournament‑record five wins and one loss. Captained by Lazaro Diaz, the Cubans posted an outstanding defensive performance and strong hitting throughout the event.
In Dakar on November 4, the Cuban Baseball5 team captured the 2026 Youth Olympic Games title, crushing Chinese Taipei 2‑0 in the final with set scores of 2‑1 and 7‑1, according to Prensa Latina.
Cuba’s win avenged a earlier group‑stage loss to the same opponent and finished the tournament with a record of five wins and one loss, matching a tournament record, Prensa Latina reported.
The Cuban squad posted defensive brilliance, allowing only two runs—both in the second inning of each set—while their hitters, led by third baseman Jean Carlos Machado who went 8‑for‑10, capitalized on key opportunities.
Lazar Diaz, the team captain, praised the group’s unity and hard‑earned training:
We are all very happy with this Olympic championship title, which included a victory in our rematch against Chinese Taipei. It took many days of training, but the group remained united throughout, and now we are reaping the rewards.
Diaz said this to the digital newspaper Jit following the final victory.
