"We expected the Chileans to be very passionate on the field but as soon as we got into the stadium the noise of the Chilean supporters was amazing," Japan's Michael Leitch said. "It was crazy." https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2023/09/11/more-sports/michael-leitch-praises-chile/?utm_content=buffera8ebd&utm_medium=social&utm_source=mastodon&utm_campaign=bffmstdn #moresports #michaelleitch #braveblossoms #2023rugbyworldcup #chile
Japan's Michael Leitch hopes to see Chile at future Rugby World Cups

While supporters are often referred to as a team's 24th man, it felt like Los Condores had a 25th, 26th or more on Sunday.

The Japan Times
Japan admitted they would have to toughen up mentally ahead of the Rugby World Cup after losing to Samoa on Saturday following a first-half red card for veteran Michael Leitch. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2023/07/22/rugby/japan-samoa-world-cup-warmup/?utm_content=buffer2903e&utm_medium=social&utm_source=mastodon&utm_campaign=bffmstdn #sports #rugby #braveblossoms #michaelleitch #2023rugbyworldcup
Michael Leitch red card costs Japan in World Cup tune-up against Samoa

Samoa edged the home side 24-22 in Sapporo in what was a dress rehearsal for the two teams' Pool D encounter at the World Cup in France later this year.

The Japan Times