Kelly Maxwell leads USA Softball past Canada in WBSC World Cup Finals opener

The No. 1-ranked U.S. Women's National Team began its WBSC World Cup Finals run in Italy on Monday with a 5-2 win over Canada.

Former OU and OSU pitcher Kelly Maxwell shined inside the circle. She racked up seven strikeouts in four scoreless innings.

Canada held a 2-0 lead at the end of the third inning, but Team USA scored five unanswered runs to secure the victory. Former UCLA shortstop Maya Brady led the way with two RBIs and one run on 1-for-2 hitting.

Next up for the United States is a game against No. 6 Italy at 1:30 p.m. CT Tuesday. It'll then close out the opening round with a game against China at 7 a.m. Wednesday.

The top four teams will advance to the Super Round (Thursday-Friday) and compete for a spot in the Medal Round on Saturday.

More: How did NiJaree Canady, USA Softball Women's Elite Team fare at Japan All-Star Series?

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Kelly Maxwell leads USA Softball past Canada in WBSC World Cup Finals