Akihiro Kobayashi powers Japan past Panama in 7th-11th Placement Round action

Centre fielder Akihiro Kobayashi had two hits, including a home run, scored three runs and batted in two to lead Japan to an impressive 5-0 win over Panama in the opening Placement Round game.

Japan took an early 2-0 in the top of the first. Rio Ishikawa scored on Kobayashi's. A base hit by Chikara Hamano sent Kobayashi home.

Two homers in the top of the third from Kobayashi and Chikara Hamano stretched the lead to 4-0 before Kobayashi scored again in the fifth to make it 5-0.

Kobayashi’s hot streak continues after he went 2-for-2 against Czechia on Monday.

Japan now leads the Placement Round with a record of 2-0, while Panama falls to 2-1.

Japan plays South Africa on Thursday, while Panama will take on Czechia.