Japan write Rugby World Cup history with sensational win against Springboks

Japan recorded the biggest upset in Rugby World Cup history as substitute Kame Hesketh scored on the last play of the game to seal a 34-32 victory over two-time winners South Africa and send reverberations through the sport two days into the six-week tournament. It was only the second win in 25 World Cup matches for the Asian nation, but they fully deserved to take the spoils from Saturday’s pulsating Pool B encounter at the Brighton Community Stadium.

We always thought we could beat them. It’s fantastic for the team, for Japanese rugby. We worked hard for this … It’s got to go down as one of the greatest games in World Cup history.

Japan coach Eddie Jones

Japan’s bravery and tenacity was in evidence throughout the contest, but no more so than in the dying stages. Eschewing the chance to kick a penalty that would have tied the scores, Japan went in for the kill in a dramatic late onslaught that ultimately carved the opening for Hesketh to dive over in the corner. Japan players and fans shed tears of joy at the end of a thrilling encounter that ebbed and flowed throughout, though few, if any, would have predicted defeat for the 1995 and 2007 champions.

I have to apologise to the nation. It was just not good enough. It was unacceptable and I take full responsibility.

South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer

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