01:28Japan: Yokohama erupts as hosts launch World Cup with win over Russia
Thousands of Japanese rugby fans gathered at Rinko Park in Yokohama on Friday evening to watch the 'Brave Blossoms' kick off the 2019 World Cup.
They cheered on in delight as the hosts ran out comfortable victors over Russia, although the 'Bears' held the lead for over half an hour in the first half.
"At this time, Japan is hosting the Rugby World Cup, so I'm glad that Japan won in the very first game. And I hope that rugby will become a more popular sport from now on in Japan," said one Japanese fan.
South Africa-born Kotaro Matsushima scored a hat-trick – Japan’s first ever at a World Cup – in the 30-10 victory despite having a try ruled out for a handling error.
The hosts face a tough test to make it out of their group and qualify for the next round, with Ireland, Scotland and Samoa to compete with for just two spots.
The Brave Blossoms will next take on the Irish in Fukuroi on Saturday, September 28, in the second match, while Russia, who surprised many with their effective kicking game, take on Samoa in just four days.
01:28Thousands of Japanese rugby fans gathered at Rinko Park in Yokohama on Friday evening to watch the 'Brave Blossoms' kick off the 2019 World Cup.
They cheered on in delight as the hosts ran out comfortable victors over Russia, although the 'Bears' held the lead for over half an hour in the first half.
"At this time, Japan is hosting the Rugby World Cup, so I'm glad that Japan won in the very first game. And I hope that rugby will become a more popular sport from now on in Japan," said one Japanese fan.
South Africa-born Kotaro Matsushima scored a hat-trick – Japan’s first ever at a World Cup – in the 30-10 victory despite having a try ruled out for a handling error.
The hosts face a tough test to make it out of their group and qualify for the next round, with Ireland, Scotland and Samoa to compete with for just two spots.
The Brave Blossoms will next take on the Irish in Fukuroi on Saturday, September 28, in the second match, while Russia, who surprised many with their effective kicking game, take on Samoa in just four days.