In a surprising turn of events, Japan’s teamwork outshone Samoa’s individual power, securing a relatively comfortable 28-22 victory in their Rugby World Cup match held in Toulouse. As a result of this outcome, Samoa’s hopes of reaching the quarterfinals, a feat they haven’t achieved since 1995, were dashed. Meanwhile, England, the pool leader, advanced to the quarterfinals.
Japan, despite having displayed subpar form and results earlier in the tournament, demonstrated patience, intelligence, and discipline on the field. This performance set the stage for a crucial showdown with Argentina in their last Pool D match, where the winner would secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
Lomano Lemeki, filling in for the injured Semisi Masirewa, made a significant impact in his first start in almost two years, contributing to Japan’s first two tries, which were scored by experienced back-rowers Pieter Labuschagne and Michael Leitch. Japan maintained a 17-3 lead until Shota Horie received a yellow card, evening out Samoa’s temporary numerical disadvantage. Samoa capitalized on this opportunity, scoring a try just before halftime through hooker Seilala Lam.
However, Samoa’s fortunes took a downturn when they received a second yellow card in the 47th minute. Winger Ben Lam’s high tackle on Labuschagne resulted in a red card after a review by the officials. Japan seized the penalty, setting up a lineout and maul that led to a try by their captain, Kazuki Himeno.
Although Rikiya Matsuda missed the conversion attempt, he added two more penalties to maintain scoreboard pressure on Samoa as they made a desperate but ultimately futile attempt at a comeback.
Injuries further hampered Samoa’s chances, with captain and lock Chris Vui being a late withdrawal, and flanker Taleni Agaese Seu also leaving the field early in the match. Despite dominating certain aspects of the game, such as rucks won and tackles made, Samoa’s tendency to overplay and lack of support proved to be their downfall.
Ultimately, Samoa’s chances were severely hindered by Ben Lam’s red card, and their efforts to recover were in vain as Japan emerged victorious, marking their third consecutive Rugby World Cup win against Samoa.
Source: AP