Mexico and Canada advanced today in the playoffs of the WBSC Softball World Championship, defeating Italy and Netherlands respectively, and remain in the fight For the Title of World Champion and the berth in the Olympic Games.

The original field of 16 nations has been cut in half, with 8 teams advancing to the Championship Round in Chiba, Japan.

Great Britain relies on a great game by designated player Kirsten Mack (3 for 3, 3 RBIs). New Zealand pitcher Jennifer Feret came just one out short of a perfect game

This gallery contains pictures of 4 games: The Netherlands-South Africa, New Zealand-Philippines, Great Britain-Venezuela, Japan-Australia

The win against South Africa secured The Netherlands fourth place in group b. In the Championship round the Dutch will face Canada. South Africa will play China in the placement round. Japan outscored Australia and will face Puerto Rico. Australia will take on USA

Canada and Italy won today their respective games and completed the round robin. Both teams qualified for the playoffs, ending third and fourth respectively, and advances to the championship round, starting on Friday at ZOZO Marine Stadium.

In the gallery you find pictures on 4 games: USA-Puerto Rico, Mexico-Chinese Taipei, Canada-Botswana and Italy-China

Group A of the WBSC Softball World Championship has already the first three teams qualified for the playoffs. USA, Puerto Rico and Mexico will advance to the playoffs as the top three teams of the group.

It was not possible to play 4 games on the last day of the round robin of the WBSC Women’s Softball World Championship. Here you find the schedule for Thursday, 9 August 2018

Puerto Rico is still undefeated and leading Group A, after a 4-1 win over New Zealand in the first game of the day at Zett A. Ball Park.