Team Kenya turning heads at Baseball5 World Cup, through to quarters

Team Kenya's youth side to the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup, has defied all odds, on their very first international outing, to secure a sensational spot in the quarterfinals against hosts Mexico at the ongoing global competition.

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In a tournament dominated by seasoned global heavyweights, Kenya has emerged as the breakout team of the competition, coming from a 2-0 loss to Cuba in the group phase, to post stunning performances, and finish second in Group B.

After a 2-0 victory against Korea, the Joel Wangicho-coached side needed a positive result against Spain.

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After a nerve-wracking start against the highly ranked European side, Kenya dropped the first set but came back roaring in the second with a dominant 7–1 win.

The decider saw the Kenyan squad execute flawlessly, sealing a dramatic upset and sending shockwaves through the tournament.

“We knew the world didn’t expect much from us, but we didn’t come here to make up the numbers, we came to compete,” Wangicho, speaking after the match, told Citizen Sport. “When the boys fell behind early, they didn’t panic. They believed in themselves, and that belief fueled the comeback.”

Riding the momentum of their stunning group-stage victory, Kenya went into their Round of 16 clash against another African side, Tunisia, brimming with confidence.

They took the first set 8–5, then cruised through the second 8–2 to clinch the series in straight sets.

"That Tunisia game was all heart, all hustle. We’ve trained hard, but what you’re seeing out there is the result of mental toughness and a lot of sacrifice,” Wangicho added. “These players are young, but they’re warriors. They’ve earned their place among the best.”

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Up against the hosts in a tough quarters matchup, Wangicho remains grounded but optimistic.

"We respect every team, but we fear no one. We’ve already shown we can beat the best, and we’re not done yet,” he said. “Kenya is no longer the surprise package, we’re contenders now.”