Havana, (RHC) - Hanging on the powerful arm of Yosimar Cousin, Cuba gave today a coup of authority against Venezuela and defeated them 5-0 in their debut in the super round of the Pre-World Cup Under 23 years of baseball.

The 21-year-old right-handed pitcher walked the entire route without difficulty, allowing only two hits and punching out in 88 pitches.

In the offensive side, manager Eriel Sanchez's batting order tipped the balance in their favor from the very first inning, when they combined three consecutive singles, coupled with the Venezuelan starter's lack of control, to score three runs, which would ultimately be decisive.

The victory consolidates Cuba (3-0) at the top of this final stage, and another victory tomorrow would assure them a place in the title discussion on Sunday, in addition to the ticket to the World Cup in the category that will be organized by Mexico in October.

Venezuela, for their part, are now 1-2 and will have to be at their best in their two remaining matches if they are to at least secure a place in the world's top table.

Thursday's match will conclude with a matchup between the hosts Nicaragua and Panama, the latter being the more discreet of the teams present at this stage.