Highs & Lows

Japan jubilant Host nation Japan became the first team from Asia to make the quarter-finals of a Rugby World Cup with a 28-21 victory over Scotland, who bowed out after the pool phase as a result. The Brave Blossoms also stunned Ireland in a 19-12 win as they topped their group.

Warm welcome for Wales

The Wales squad were serenaded by 15,000 Japanese fans at training, with supporters singing the Welsh national anthem. Thousands attended Wales’ open training as World Cup fever gripped Kitakyushu. The players arrived to fans wearing red shirts and singing Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau before a rendition of hymn Calon Lan.

England stun All Blacks England produced one of the greatest displays in World Cup history to storm past champions New Zealand in the semis. An extraordinary match beckoned from the moment Manu Tuilagi crossed after 97 seconds, and the final scoreline of 19-7 did little justice to the domination of Eddie Jones’ men, superior in every facet.

End of the road for Vahaamahina France lock Sebastien Vahaamahina announced his retirement from international rugby a day after his red card against Wales. The Clermont forward was dismissed in the second half for an elbow on Aaron Wainwright as his side lost a dramatic quarter-final 2019. Vahaamahina won 46 caps.

England v France off Typhoon Hagibis put paid to any chance of the Pool C decider in Yokohama. The cancelled match was declared a scoreless draw, the teams receiving two points apiece and Eddie Jones’ side finishing top of the group. New Zealand v Italy was also among the matches cancelled due to the typhoon, which is tragically reported to have claimed as many as 86 lives.

Italy duo denied swansongs

Italy veterans Sergio Parisse and Leonardo Ghiraldini missed out on farewell appearances due to the cancellation of their clash with the All Blacks. Azzurri captain Parisse, a 142-Test veteran, is one of only three players to play in five World Cups and is expected to retire.