The US are two from two at the Under-18 Baseball World Cup ©WBSC

Defending champions United States eased to an 8-1 win over Chinese Taipei for a second consecutive victory at the Under-18 Baseball World Cup in South Korea.

The US recovered from an early scare to comfortably see off their opponents in Group B at Gijang-Hyundai Dream Ballpark.

Victory saw the US move a step closer to qualifying for the super round as they aim for a record fifth straight World Cup title.

Japan, the last team to beat the US at the World Baseball Softball Confederation tournament, went top of the group by thrashing South Africa 19-0.

The Japanese side are ahead on runs scored following their demolition of the hapless South African outfit.

Spain defeated Panama 12-3 to win their first match of the tournament ©WBSC
Spain defeated Panama 12-3 to win their first match of the tournament ©WBSC

In the other match in Group B, Spain recovered from their opening defeat to Japan by overcoming Panama 12-3.

Nicaragua and Canada picked up their second wins of the tournament in Group A.

Canada swept aside the Netherlands 11-0, while Nicaragua edged out China 6-3.

Australia capitalised on an error to earn a narrow 1-0 victory against South Korea.

A further six more matches are scheduled for tomorrow.