Japan 'Stuns The World': Rugby Upset Reaction

Japan's shock rugby World Cup win over South Africa is being heralded as one of sport's biggest upsets, with the victory still trending on Twitter.

The 34-32 win came after the team went into the match 1000-1 no-hopers, according to some bookies.

"Japan stuns the world” , said the country’s most popular newspaper, while South African media have warned "heads will roll" .

It may well end up ranked alongside such sporting shocks as Ali's win over Foreman, and Denmark's 1992 European Championships win.

Before Saturday, Japan had not won a World Cup match since 1991. South Africa - two-time champions - were expected to steamroller them.

But the Cherry Blossoms tore up the script and social media has been reacting with near universal glee and admiration.

Jonny Wilkinson tweeted that it was a "brilliant performance", while fellow World Cup winner Mike Tindall recorded a video message calling it "absolutely unbelievable" and urging neutrals to buy a Japan shirt.

Harry Potter author JK Rowling even got in on the action, tweeting: "#RSAvJPN #RugbyWorldCup You couldn't write this..."

For the regular fan expecting to see a routine mauling by the Springboks, @Shredable sums up the feelings well.

"Massive upset by @JRFURugby - I was screaming at the TV at the end; no neutrals could fail to be converted by the Brave Blossoms' performance."

Brighton - more associated with seagulls and its iconic piers - is now assured of a place in rugby folklore, and fans lucky enough to have been there have also been posting.

Cat Thompson managed to get a selfie with match winner Karne Hesketh , whose dramatic last-gasp effort sealed the historic victory.

One Twitter user at the game even posted a picture of the tearful mother of one of the players, who he says he was sat next to.

"This lady's son plays for Japan. My trip has been made. She is crying with joy," posted @KeenyKeenz .

Micky Hutman added: "The best £20 for a ticket ever ... great experience, well done @JapanRugby well done World Cup #RWC2015"

With the vast majority of the crowd willing Japan on to victory - some of them in tears at the whistle - the team paid their thanks, lining up for a collective bow of appreciation.

And for the heroes from Japanese team, what to do the morning after?

How about a spot of beach tennis? Suzy Twigg posted a picture on the Brighton sand with some of the squad.

Unfortunately for South Africa, they are now victims of the inevitable internet memes - the most popular so far a springbok caught between chopsticks.

The road to redemption for the team comes next Saturday when they play Samoa.

Meanwhile Japan and their new legion of fans say they are gunning for the quarter-finals and play Scotland on Wednesday.