REPORTAGE
The Japanese live a historic world, with a first participation in the final draw, four games and as many victories (including against Ireland and Scotland). And as and when the craze, already very present from the beginning, has strengthened. So much so that right now, in Japan, it's downright crazy for rugby.
In the middle of Tokyo, there were big scenes of jubilation after the qualification of the Japanese against Scotland. Never rugby had caused so much enthusiasm here. In the last match, more than 60 million people were in front of their television, more than half of the Japanese population.
"I did not know this sport well, but now I love it!"
Japan is a rugby fan like Hijuko, in his thirties, who has not missed a game in his country since the Tokyo fanzone: "This is an extraordinary moment for our country and our team. joy here and it's thanks to our selection ... I did not know this sport well but now I love it! "
A discovery for some so. But for Japan, it should rather be rediscovery since the country was one of the first countries to play rugby in the nineteenth century. The tradition was then lost a bit, at the turn of the 2000s.
Sunday's quarter-final is just as delusional. Across the country, we track the famous jerseys of the national team. Casuey, 75, has scoured the malls to buy this white and red striped jersey from Japan for his little girl: "There are not many sizes available, it's the fifth store I'm doing. take one even if it is too big It is great for the country this world cup and ... these victories!
Hymns loop in commercial galleries
Moreover, in the ephemeral stores of the world cup, the sales exceed all the forecasts. There are no more jerseys in stock! On the Oita side in the south of the country, where two quarter-finals will be played, we even push the passion very far since the huge shopping malls broadcast loops of the nations participating in the world.
This fervor could continue for some time with a technical game but especially very spectacular, at least as much as that of the Blacks. The Japanese will have all their chances on Sunday against South Africa.