Japan could break into the world’s top 10 rankings if they upset defending champions Fiji in the Pacific Nations Cup final this weekend.
The Brave Blossoms secured their place in the title decider after a dominant 63-14 victory over the United States at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka.
Head coach Eddie Jones’ side will now face the Flying Fijians, who booked their spot in the final with a 45-29 win over Canada at the same venue.
While Fiji maintained their winning form, the result did not improve their World Rugby rating due to the large gap in rankings between the two teams before kickoff.
Japan, however, gained the maximum 0.73 rating points from their emphatic victory over the Eagles, strengthening their position above 13th-ranked Georgia and moving within striking distance of 11th-ranked Italy.
A victory over Fiji in Saturday’s final could see Japan climb as high as ninth in the world rankings.
The Pacific Nations Cup final will be played at Tokyo’s Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium at 10pm on Saturday, while Canada and the United States will contest the third-place playoff.
Despite Fiji entering the match as defending champions, captain Tevita Ikanivere believes Japan will enjoy favoritism playing in front of a passionate home crowd.