Forwards fire to offset backline blunders

The Springboks’ phenomenal set-piece and defensive performance against Japan was undermined by poor handling and discipline in their 26-3 quarter-final win, writes JON CARDINELLI at the Tokyo Stadium.

Gatland: The better team lost today

Coach Warren Gatland acknowledged that the red card to French lock Sebastien Vahaamahina was a decisive moment as Wales clinched a one-point win in Sunday’s quarter-final.

Wales snatch win over brave France

Wales came from a 12-point deficit to claim a 20-19 victory over a 14-man France side in the World Cup quarter-finals in Oita on Sunday. DYLAN JACK reports.

Cheika: I knew from the final whistle

Michael Cheika says he knew in the immediate aftermath of Australia’s quarter-final defeat to England that he would quit as Wallabies coach.

Consultancy role for Lambie at the Sharks

Former Springbok Pat Lambie is set to serve as a kicking consultant at the Sharks.

Watch: Fan cams, festivities in Tokyo

SA Rugby magazine’s Jon Cardinelli soaked up the atmosphere ahead of the highly-anticipated quarter-final between the Springboks and Japan at the Tokyo Stadium.

End of the road for Cheika

Michael Cheika will not seek re-appointment as Wallabies coach following his side’s heavy defeat to England in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final.

Kolisi: Boks know what’s required

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says the Springboks won’t take Japan lightly, while flyhalf Handre Pollard insists that the Boks will take the points however they come on Sunday.

‘Heartbroken’ Schmidt praises ABs

Departing coach Joe Schmidt says that Ireland’s failure to make the All Blacks work for their points was his side’s undoing following their 46-14 quarter-final defeat in Tokyo.

Jones: No sympathy for Australia

England coach Eddie Jones feels no sympathy for his native Australia following England’s resounding quarter-final victory over the Wallabies on Saturday.