CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) – Venezuelans are experiencing a wave of happiness that feels sweeter and more profound than ever before. The source? Their national baseball team's thrilling 3-2 victory over the USA in the World Baseball Classic. Following an intense and closely fought match, the streets of Caracas erupted in jubilant celebration – a rare and powerful expression of joy after years of repression and strife.

‘We hadn't expressed this happiness that we want to shout,’ shared hairdresser Deyanira Machado, capturing the collective relief felt across all demographics in the capital.

Following the game, people of all ages united, banging pots and pans, singing the national anthem, and turning grocery stores into vibrant marketplaces of celebration. Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president, even declared a national ‘day of joy' marking the importance of this victory.

Venezuelans hoisted their flags high, feeling that this moment wasn't just about baseball, but a symbol of resilience and hope for a future filled with possibility. Everyone rallied together sharing their unified dreams and aspirations for a better nation, with many believing this could herald a new chapter of positivity for Venezuela.