The embassy of Japan in Pretoria hosted more than 130 diplomats for the viewing of the rugby world cup quarter final match between South Africa and Japan on Sunday.

The match was televised on a big screen at the embassy in Pretoria.

Second secretary at the Japanese embassy Akari Watanabe said the aim of televising the match live was to strengthen the relations between the two countries.

While she would not be drawn who would come out victorious, she hoped the match would strengthen the relationship between the two nations.

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Watanabe said the quarter-final clash was also an opportunity for both countries to learn about each other’s different cultures.

“We have prepared Japanese food and drinks,” said Watanabe

“The match between these two countries is not just a match but a celebration for the long-standing friendship between South Africa and Japan.”

Watanabe said the rugby match between the countries was also an opportunity to invite more South Africans to start visiting the country.

The guests who came to watch sang each other’s national anthems before the start of the match and wished each other good luck.

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Louis Teague who came with her family said she was excited to watch the match at the embassy and said she had learned a lot about the Japanese culture and food.

The match between the two countries took place at Tokyo Metropolis stadium.

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