Rugby World Cup 2019: Japan coach Jamie Joseph pays tribute to those affected by Typhoon Hagibis

Japan coach Jamie Joseph paid tribute to Typhoon Hagibis victims, after his side beat Scotland 28-21 to reach the quarter-finals at the Rugby World Cup. 

The hosts held off a late fightback from the Scots to finish atop Pool A and reach the knockout stages for the first time. 

But Joseph admitted team had mixed emotions, due to Typhoon Hagibis, which took the lives of at least 30 people. 

"I think it is important to acknowledge what went on last night with regards to the typhoon," he said. "We woke up this morning, and nine people had been killed and 12 are still missing.

"We talked about that as a team. Sometimes, those sorts of things can be overwhelming, but I think it came out in the mix today.

"While we are celebrating, a lot of people are suffering."

Captain Michael Leitch felt the win was the ultimate way to honour the victims. 

"Before the match started at the team hotel, the players already knew how this game was more than just us, that a lot of people suffered in the typhoon for this game to happen," he said. 

"We are grateful for the opportunity to inspire Japan and we showed that for 80 minutes tonight."

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend also paid his respects on behalf of his team.

"On behalf of the Scotland rugby team, I would just like to pass on our thoughts to the people of Japan for the devastation caused by the typhoon," he said. "Our thoughts go out to those who have lost anyone close to them."    

Japan, one of only two teams to win all four of their pool games, will now face South Africa in the quarter-finals. 

"You can just look around, and see how special a moment this is for our team and for this country," Joseph added.

"I think the world has always respected Japan, but Japan have not always trusted themselves.

"Tonight, we went up another level and they gave everything they possibly could. Everyone gave 150 percent and that is what it takes to win test matches.

"The more we win, the more that belief will grow."

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