The Japanese national rugby team practiced before the test match against the French national team, ranked second in the world rankings, on the night of the 20th Japan time. I want to demonstrate my rugby 100%," he said enthusiastically.
The Japan national rugby team, ranked 10th in the world, is strengthening its preparations for the World Cup, which will start in France next September. Play a test match in Toulouse.
On the 19th, the first 15 minutes of the practice held in the morning was released, and the players warmed up and adjusted for the game, such as light dashes.
After finishing practice, Inagaki said, “Although rain is expected on the day of the match, we were able to check the condition of the grass and how we played. Everyone understands that there is nothing wrong with this, and we want to show our rugby 100% in the match against France."
Captain Sakate Atsushi said, “France is one of the top teams in the world. Set pieces are important, and I think the opponents will put pressure on us during scrums, but we want to respond well. Don't be afraid, don't run defensively, I want to set it first."
Opponent ranked 2nd in the world
France is ranked 2nd in the world and is considered to be the favorite to win the World Cup next year.
Japan has played twice in July this year, but has never won, including losing both times.
On the afternoon of the 19th, France also held a press conference after training. I think it's a very good team with good rhythm and excellent teamwork," he said, showing his enthusiasm for the match against Japan.
The venue of the match is the “capital of rugby”
Toulouse in the south of France is a rugby city known as the "capital of rugby".
Based in Toulouse, Stade Toulousain is one of Europe's leading clubs with a history of more than 100 years, and has produced many players for the French national team. Did.
According to the local government, there are 400 club teams in the area, including surrounding cities, and 70,000 adults and children play rugby.
Five games, including two for the Japan national team, will be held at the World Cup, which will start in September next year.
In the center of the city, there is also a large panel showing the number of days until the opening of the World Cup, and a man in his 50s said, "The Japan national team has become the strongest team in the last four years. The results of the match. It's difficult to predict the match, and it will be a close match, but it's a home game in Toulouse, so I think France will have an advantage."