In a dazzling display of rugby, fullback Takuro Matsunaga notched up 17 points, leading Japan to a robust 27-10 victory over Italy in their opening match of the Nations Championship in Tokyo. Despite the absence of head coach Eddie Jones due to suspension, the Brave Blossoms showcased strategic brilliance and physical prowess to kick off their campaign with a win.
The matchup began with Italy drawing first blood through Juan Ignacio Brex's early try, hinting at a challenging game for the hosts. However, Japan quickly regrouped and retaliated, with captain Warner Dearns crashing over the line shortly after. Matsunaga then extended the lead with a try and additional points off his boot, slicing through the Italian defense with a well-orchestrated move.
Italy faced further setbacks when fullback Lorenzo Pani left the field injured, and Matsunaga capitalized with a penalty to widen the gap. The Italians managed to claw back some points with a penalty just before halftime, but Japan entered the break with a 17-10 lead.
The second half saw Japan's flanker Ben Gunter adding to the tally, pushing through under pressure to score. Matsunaga continued his impeccable performance, converting the try to stretch the lead further. Italy, despite a valiant effort, could not breach the resilient Japanese defense again.
"We knew the challenge Italy posed, especially coming off their Six Nations performance, but the boys stuck to our game plan and executed it perfectly,"
noted Japan's forwards coach Neal Hatley, who stepped in for the suspended Eddie Jones.Japan now looks forward to their next challenge against Ireland in Newcastle, Australia, while Italy prepares to face the formidable All Blacks in Wellington.
The game was particularly notable for the debut of Ryunosuke Ito at flyhalf for Japan, a move that reflects the team's focus on integrating new talent and building depth. More than 20,000 fans witnessed the spectacle, supporting their team with fervor and anticipation of a promising campaign ahead.
Japan Team Tries: Warner Dearns, Takuro Matsunaga, Ben Gunter. Conversions: Matsunaga (3). Penalties: Matsunaga (2).
Italy Team Try: Juan Ignacio Brex. Conversion: Paolo Garbisi. Penalty: Garbisi.