Australia and Japan won all five of their matches in the opening group stage in Paraná ©WBSC

Australia and Japan topped their respective groups in the opening phase of the inaugural World Baseball Softball Confederation Under-23 Men’s Softball World Cup in Paraná.

The two sides won all five of their matches to advance to the super round where they will be joined by Mexico, Canada, New Zealand and hosts Argentina.

All six teams will carry over their respective opening-round head-to-head records going into the next stage.

Australia dominated Group A, beating Singapore 7-3, Argentina 2-1, South Africa 8-3, Mexico 4-1 and the Czech Republic 2-0.

Mexico’s defeat to Australia was their only loss as they beat Argentina 5-4, the Czech Republic 6-4, Singapore 8-5 and South Africa 7-0.

Argentina overcame the Czech Republic 2-0, South Africa 6-1 and Singapore 7-0 to progress to the super round.

Japan starred in Group B, seeing off Guatemala, who are playing under the banner of the WBSC, 5-2, Israel 7-0, Canada 5-1, Venezuela 2-0 and New Zealand 5-0.

Canada and New Zealand both won three matches and lost two to book their places in the next stage.

The top two teams at the conclusion of the super round will advance to the final, scheduled to be held on Sunday (April 23) at the Nafaldo Cargnel Stadium.

Competition is due to continue tomorrow.