Czech Republic beat the United States in a 6-5 thriller today to secure third place in Group B at the Junior Men's Softball World Championship in Prince Albert in Canada ©WBSC

Czech Republic beat the United States in a 6-5 thriller today to secure third place in Group B at the Junior Men's Softball World Championship in Prince Albert in Canada.

The Czechs survived four defensive errors at the Prime Ministers' Park Field, while the US were left to regret stranding too many runners in scoring positions late in the game.

Victory sets up a play-off round encounter with Mexico, who clinched fourth spot in Group A with a 9-1 win over South Africa.

Next up for the US, who finished fourth in Group B, are Argentina.

The South Americans sealed third place in Group A with a 9-0 victory over India.

The two other play-off round matches pit Group A winners Japan against Group B runners-up New Zealand, and Group A runners-up Australia against Group B winners Canada.

Japan clinched top spot in Group A with a 3-2 win over Australia ©WBSC
Japan clinched top spot in Group A with a 3-2 win over Australia ©WBSC

Japan ensured top spot in Group A courtesy of a 3-2 triumph over Australia.

Canada and New Zealand both recorded 10-0 wins today to secure their respective finishes.

The former beat Hong Kong, while the latter defeated Guatemala.

As well as the play-off round matches, tomorrow will also see four placement-round games held.

The winner of the clash between Denmark and Hong Kong will face India, while the loser will go up against the loser of South Africa’s meeting with Guatemala.

Action is due to conclude on Sunday (July 15) with the medal matches.