Japan have beaten Ireland in a huge shock at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

The hosts defeated Ireland 19-12 in Shizuoka, with Kenki Fukuoka scoring in the second half as Japan stunned the world's number two side.

Garry Ringrose and Rob Kearney scored early first-half tries for Ireland.

But Yu Tamura's three penalties cut their lead to 12-9 at half-time.

And then Fukuoka scored to give Japan the lead that they held on to. 

A truly remarkable performance that Japan won't be forgetting for some time.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt told ITV, per BBC Sport. "I felt we played well in the first quarter, we got into a 12-3 lead and then stopped playing.

"We probably fell on the wrong side of the penalty count. Three or four of them were for offsides that we felt were pretty tough.

"It just gave them the front foot and they didn't button off.

"Congratulations to Japan, what an intense effort that was.

"We knew that was coming but we are disappointed we didn't manage to control the end of the game."

It was an inspired effort for Japan to keep Ireland out for the entirety of the second half.

And the reaction from the home fans inside the stadium showed just how passionate they are about rugby.

"We are really happy," Japan's stand-in captain Pieter Labuschagne told ITV. "It is difficult top put it into words but I'm proud of every man and it was a great team effort.

"That [South Africa 2015] was a great game but we came into this tournament with a new goal.

"We knew what we wanted to do and we backed ourselves. I just want to thank everyone for taking time to come and support us. They were amazing."

Japan now top Pool A with two wins from two.

What a remarkable tale.