Japan lose to South Africa in RWC quarterfinal

Oct 21 (NHK) - South Africa beat Japan 26 to 3 in the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals on Sunday.

Sixth-ranked Japan had advanced to the knockout stage for the first time.

South Africa scored a try just four minutes into the match. Japan got three points with a penalty goal in the 20th minute.

The first half ended with the Springboks two points ahead.

But in the second half, Japan made a series of fouls and allowed three penalty kicks.

South Africa extended their lead with two more tries.

Earlier on Sunday, Wales came from behind and beat France 20 to 19 to reach the semifinals of the Rugby World Cup.

France were on the offensive in the first half, leading 19 to 10 before half-time.

They lost one man for dangerous play in the second half, but Wales still struggled to gain the upper hand.

Trailing by six points, Wales finally scored a try in the 74th minute, and turned the tables with a conversion kick.

Wales have advanced to the semifinals for the first time in two tournaments.

They will face South Africa on October 27 in Yokohama, near Tokyo.

Source: Kyodo

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