Japan have pulled off one of the biggest upsets in Rugby World Cup history as they beat Ireland 19-12 in Shizuoka.
The well deserved victory came when Ireland looked to make it two wins out of two following last weekend’s win over Scotland.
Although Ireland led 12-3 at half-time they were completely blown away in the second half as three penalties from Yu Tamura along with a try from Kenki Fukuoka gave Japan a seven point victory.
Ireland who looked down and out were left hanging on and defended valiantly to claim a losing bonus point as a ruthless Japan looked to add more in sweltering conditions.
Joe Schmidt’s men who were one of the favourites to win the the tournament, now have two games left against Samoa and Russia to finish off the pool.