Hosts Panama beat defending Under-15 Baseball World Cup champions Cuba in David ©WBSC

Hosts Panama earned a 4-2 win over previously unbeaten Cuba, who are seeking a third consecutive title, to bring the first day of the super round to a close at the Under-15 Baseball World Cup in David.

Panama's win at the Kenny Serracin Stadium means they now share top billing in the standings with Cuba, Japan and the United States, all of whom also have a 2-1 record.

The US, ranked number one in the world, overcame an early deficit to earn a 13-7 win over the Dominican Republic in this World Baseball Softball Confederation event that was first held in 1989.

Luke Leto, considered the top 15-year-old baseball player in the US and potentially the world, went three-for-three with two RBIs and four runs scored.

He made big league plays at third base and pitched a perfect seventh inning to close the game.

Luke Leto played a key part for the United States as they maintained their equal top position at the Super Round at the WBSC Under-15 Baseball World Cup in Panama ©WBSC
Luke Leto played a key part for the United States as they maintained their equal top position at the Super Round at the WBSC Under-15 Baseball World Cup in Panama ©WBSC

With two rounds remaining, the US play Cuba tomorrow, while Japan meet Panama and the Dominican Republic meet a Chinese Taipei side who beat the US team 2-1 in their opening match.

The US and Panama had sealed their presence in the super round by completing their final group matches against Brazil and China respectively after weather delays.

The US earned an 8-0 win over Brazil, and the hosts won 18-0 against Germany.

The top two after the super round will contest the final.