Japan’s memorable 28-21 victory over Scotland at the Rugby World Cup dominates the newspaper back pages today.
The host nation finished top of pool A to qualify for the quarter-finals for the first time. They will now play South Africa in the last eight on Sunday 20 October in Tokyo.
It was an “unbelievable” effort, says The Daily Telegraph, with Japan producing one of the greatest World Cup performances just a day after the chaos of Typhoon Hagibis left at least 37 dead in the country.
With the Scots sent packing, i Sport reports that belief is growing in Japan that they could shock the rugby world and lift the trophy.
The Guardian adds that Japan honoured the typhoon victims with the historic victory. Head coach Jamie Joseph paid tribute to those affected by the typhoon.
He said: “I really want to acknowledge the families that have lost people in the typhoon. That really motivated our players and they wanted to play for them.
“You can just look around and see how special a moment this is for our team and for this country. I think the world has always respected Japan, but Japan have not always trusted themselves.
“We went up another level and they gave everything they possibly could. Everyone gave 150% and that is what it takes to win Test matches. The more we win, the more that belief will grow.”
Rugby World Cup quarter-finals
- Saturday 19 October: England vs. Australia (8.15am; Oita Stadium, Oita; live on ITV)
- Saturday 19 October: New Zealand vs. Ireland (11.15am; Tokyo Stadium, Tokyo; live on ITV)
- Sunday 20 October: Wales vs. France (8.15am; Oita Stadium, Oita; live on ITV)
- Sunday 20 October: Japan vs. South Africa (11.15am; Tokyo Stadium, Tokyo; live on ITV)
