An Undefeated Japan in the Final Eight: Reviewing the Wins and Looking Ahead

Matsushima Kōtarō put his speed to good use in the September 20 match against Russia at Tokyo Stadium, scoring a hat trick. (© Jiji)

Captain Michael Leitch, with ball, came off the bench against Ireland to give his team a burst of energy. Taken on September 28 in Shizuoka. (© Jiji)

Samoa-born Timothy Lafaele scores Japan’s first try against his former country on October 5 in Toyota Stadium, Aichi Prefecture. (© Jiji)

Fukuoka Kenki delivers an acrobatic offload pass to Matsushima, who carries it past the line for Japan’s first try against Scotland on October 13 in Yokohama. (© Jiji)

Tamura Yū, the tournament’s top scorer in pool-stage play, will be one player to watch in the upcoming match against South Africa. (© Jiji)