Host Japan prevailed at the 19:12 Rugby World Cup (9:12) against Ireland. The Asians were already back with 3:12, but the Irish group counting to the favorites did not score in the second section.
The Japanese team had already won the opening match against Russia. With nine points, they are at the top of Group A. Ireland is second with six points.
Memories of the 2015 World Cup in England awoke with the Japanese as they beat the highly favored South Africans. This success is considered one of the biggest surprises in World Cup history. "The boys will be drinking some beer tonight," said coach Jamie Joseph after the game.
Since 1987, Japan has qualified for every World Cup, but has not made it past the preliminary round. Japan is the first Asian host of the tournament.
South Africa, which had lost the favorites duel against defending champion New Zealand at the tournament start, defeated Namibia 57: 3 (31: 3). Argentina won 28:12 (28: 7) against Tonga in the first Saturday match.
A total of 20 teams participate in the final round. After the preliminary round with four groups of five qualify each of the top two finishers for the quarter-finals. There it goes from 19 October in the knockout mode for the title. The final will take place on November 2nd in Yokohama. Further information about the tournament can be found here.