Despite being nine places below them in the world rankings, Uruguay have provided the first upset of the World Cup by beating Oceania nation Fiji in a game no one should have missed 30-27. It was Uruguay’s first World Cup win in 16 years, and only their third ever at this level. The other victories were as far back as 2003 against Georgia in Australia and against Spain in 1999.
In front of a packed crowd in Kamaishi with Crown Prince Akishino in attendance, Los Teros stunned Fiji. They came from behind to lead through tries from Santiago Arata, Manuel Diana and Juan Manuel Cat. Fiji came into the game following a defeat in their first match of the tournament to Australia, they started comfortably in Kamaishi as Mesulame Dolokoto crossed at the corner early on. A win would have got their tournament back on track and they led again through Eroni Mawi after Arata quickly responded for Uruguay, but the Fijians were stunned by Esteban Meneses resilient side.
Uruguay playing their first match of the tournament led 24-12 after an extremely exciting first stanza. They scored three tries in that time, and were within an inch of securing a bonus point with a fourth, too. On the other hand, Fiji made 12 changes to team that lost to Australia on Saturday, scored two of their own, both from short range off the back of scrum penalties which they kicked into touch. This defeat leaves the Flying Fijians with two points after two games; they sit fourth currently on the table having played a game more than other group members.
John McKee’s team have two more games to save themselves but it is beginning to look incredibly difficult. A crucial tie against Georgia on next week Thursday, 03 October with their final group game against Wales six days later.
The 2019 Rugby World Cup is ongoing in Japan and it has provided plenty excitement. We are not left out, you shouldn’t. The southern African derby between South Africa and Namibia is on Saturday at the City of Toyota stadium. Do not hesitate to visit our Sportshop babaijebu.ng for our mouthwatering offers in the ninth Rugby World Cup.