Tokyo: Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata expressed his desire for his team to overcome South Korea in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) by employing strategies that have propelled Japan to the top of the world rankings. "I want to win this game playing the Japanese style of connected baseball," Ibata stated during a pregame press conference at Tokyo Dome.
According to Yonhap News Agency, this matchup marks the second game of Pool C for both teams. South Korea triumphed over Czechia with an 11-4 victory, thanks to four home runs on Thursday, while Japan showcased their strength in a 13-0 win against Chinese Taipei on Friday. Ibata highlighted the potential threat posed by South Korea, emphasizing the importance of avoiding walks and defensive errors. "As long as we win the game, it will be enough. I hope players will all do their part," he noted.
Infielder Shugo Maki echoed Ibata's sentiments regarding South Korea's ability to hit home runs. "Anybody in that lineup can hit a home run," Maki commented. Despite Japan's previous victory, Maki stressed the need to focus on the upcoming game, acknowledging the challenge of preventing South Korea from scoring first.