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Uruguay Stuns Fiji in Rugby World Cup Upset

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Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 1 min read

This archive report was first published on 25 September 2019.

On September 25, 2019, Uruguay pulled off the greatest win in their history, defeating Fiji 30-27 in a pulsating game at the Kamaishi Recovery Stadium in Japan.

The match, played in Kamaishi, one of the towns hardest-hit by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, held a deeper significance as it was a powerful sign of recovery for the region.

As Japan's Crown Prince Akishino looked on, the crowd observed a moment's silence to remember the more than 1,000 people killed in the tsunami.

Uruguay's victory was a testament to their determination and skill, as they capitalized on Fiji's error-strewn performance and refused to give up despite being ranked nine places below the Pacific islanders.

The thrilling game saw Fiji take an early lead, but Uruguay hit back with a mazy run from scrum-half Santiago Arata, followed by tries from Manuel Diana and Juan Manuel Cat.

Despite Fiji's huge forward superiority, Uruguay clung on for dear life in the final stages, ultimately securing a historic win.

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