WBSC Africa Youth Baseball5 World Cup Qualifier: South Africa and Tunisia lead undefeated after Day 1

The WBSC Africa Youth Baseball5 African Championships, hosted by South Africa Baseball, officially began at the Western Cape Sports School in Cape Town, South Africa. The opening day saw five thrilling matches, with teams displaying their unique styles and approaches to the game as they competed for early momentum in the tournament.  

South Africa kicked off the event against Lesotho. The hosts won the first set 10–2 but faced a strong challenge in the second, losing 5–8. However, South Africa responded in the decisive third set, winning 15–0 to secure a 2–1 victory.  

In the second match, Kenya faced Zimbabwe in an intense contest. Kenya's wKenya'sanized play led to a 15–2 win in the first set, followed by a narrow 2–1 victory in the second, sealing the match 2–0.  

The third match featured Tunisia against Ghana. Tunisia'sce was evident, with players who have competed in multiple World Cups bringing composure and precision to the game. They secured the match with 5–0 and 5–2 wins in the two sets, earning a convincing 2–0 victory.  

In their first tournament match, Ghana demonstrated their physical approach to the game, creating challenges for Tunisia with their intensity and athleticism. While they fell short, Ghana'psomises to create exciting contests as the event progresses.  

South Africa returned for the fourth match of the day, taking on Zimbabwe. The hosts impressed their supporters with a 14–4 win in the first set and narrowly clinched the second set 6–5 to earn a 2–0 victory. Zimbabwe showcased their team spirit with constant singing and enthusiastic support from the dugout, energizing the atmosphere.  

The final match saw Tunisia take on Lesotho. Tunisia displayed their experience and sharp execution, winning 22–2 in the first set and 9–1 in the second to secure a 2–0 victory. Despite the loss, Lesotho brought a vibrant energy to the event with their singing and team camaraderie, adding to the celebratory mood of the championship.  

At the end of Day 1, Tunisia and South Africa led the standings with two wins each, while Kenya started strong with its opening victory. Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Lesotho showcased their resilience and will aim to build on their performances as the tournament continues.  

Match 1: South Africa vs. Lesotho  
- Set 1: South Africa 10 – 2 Lesotho  
- Set 2: Lesotho 8 – 5 South Africa  
- Set 3: South Africa 15 – 0 Lesotho  
- Winner: South Africa (2–1)  

Match 2: Kenya vs. Zimbabwe  
- Set 1: Kenya 15 – 2 Zimbabwe  
- Set 2: Kenya 2 – 1 Zimbabwe  
- Winner: Kenya (2–0)  

Match 3: Tunisia vs. Ghana  
- Set 1: Tunisia 5 – 0 Ghana  
- Set 2: Tunisia 5 – 2 Ghana  
- Winner: Tunisia (2–0)  

Match 4: Zimbabwe vs South Africa  
- Set 1: South Africa 14 – 4 Zimbabwe  
- Set 2: South Africa 6 – 5 Zimbabwe  
- Winner: South Africa (2–0)  

Match 5: Lesotho vs. Tunisia  
- Set 1: Tunisia 22 – 2 Lesotho  
- Set 2: Tunisia 9 – 1 Lesotho  
- Winner: Tunisia (2–0)  

Day two is set to bring more exciting matchups, with teams looking to improve their standings and keep their hopes alive for World Cup qualification. Each nation's diverse styles and unique energy promise another day of unforgettable Baseball5 action. All matches are streamed live on Super Sports Schools and can be viewed on the Super Sports Schools app www.supersportschools.com