Ireland launched their World Cup campaign in style with a dominant 42-14 victory over Japan in Pool C, a result that keeps their hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals alive. With defending champions New Zealand looming large in the group, Ireland knew they could not afford any slip-ups, and they delivered a performance full of precision, power, and control on a perfect Franklin’s Gardens surface.
Japan had won the previous meeting between the sides in 2022, but this time they found themselves outmuscled and overpowered by an Irish team playing with clarity and cohesion. The visitors battled bravely and were rewarded with two converted tries, but Ireland’s physicality and accuracy ultimately proved decisive.
Ireland set the tone early, with Amee-Leigh Costigan bursting over in the corner after fending off her opposite number. Hooker Neve Jones added a second try from a rolling maul, with Dannah O’Brien slotting the first of six successful conversions. Costigan then turned provider, releasing Beibhinn Parsons for a sweeping score out wide, as Ireland’s backline showcased slick handling and smart decision-making.
Japan hit back through Haruka Hirotsu just before the half-hour mark, but Fiona Tuite’s try shortly before the break restored Ireland’s commanding lead. The defining moment came early in the second half: with Japan pressing deep into Irish territory and threatening to cut the deficit, a loose pass was intercepted by Eve Higgins, who sprinted the length of the field to score under the posts. The score shifted the momentum completely, stretching the gap to 35-14 instead of narrowing to just a single score.
Japan’s second-half effort included a try from Masami Kawamura, but Ireland kept their composure and added further gloss to the scoreboard. Enya Breen crossed for their sixth try, and despite a late yellow card for Linda Djougang, Ireland never looked troubled in the closing stages.
The result positions Ireland strongly in Pool C, with a likely quarter-final showdown against France on the horizon. Before that, they face Spain in Northampton next weekend, before preparing for a crucial clash with New Zealand on 7 September. If Ireland continue to build on this performance, they may yet produce their own version of the famous “Miracle of Brighton” against the reigning champions.
