Italy's dream run at the World Baseball Classic, which included a historic victory over a star-studded United States team in the pool stage, ended in the semi-finals on Monday when they lost 4-2 to Venezuela.
    Despite the defeat, the Azzurri expressed satisfaction at the impact they have made with their remarkable run to the last four.
    "I just told the guys that they are the champions of this tournament," said Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli after the match.
    "No one expected what they did.

They are champions.

They are incredible.

    "They revolutionized Italy. They put another sport on the map, which is good.
    "You know, there were many people watching the game, and it was the middle of the night.
    "Seven million people watching this game against a team full of superstars. They fought. Yes, I'm very proud of them".
   

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