On Sunday, 13 September, All France Rugby Club returned to the pitch at Sankei Sports Center for a pre-season friendly against the Tokyo Gaijins.
It was a demanding test from the start. The Gaijins brought pace and physicality, putting AFRC under pressure around the breakdown and forcing us to defend for long periods. The final score, AFRC 10–66 Tokyo Gaijins, was a tough one, but this was exactly the kind of match pre-season is for: getting minutes into the legs, testing combinations and seeing clearly what needs work before the competitive season begins.
There were positive moments with ball in hand and plenty of commitment in defence, but the Gaijins were more clinical when opportunities appeared. Turnovers and lost momentum were punished quickly, while the scrum, lineout and breakdown all gave AFRC useful areas to review.
Matches between AFRC and the Tokyo Gaijins have been part of Tokyo’s international rugby scene for years, and this latest meeting continued that tradition. You can also look back at our 2024 fixture against the Gaijins.
Watch the match
Most importantly, it was another good afternoon of rugby shared with a familiar opponent. Thanks to the Tokyo Gaijins for the game and to everyone who came along, played, supported and helped make the day happen.
A tough pre-season lesson for AFRC — and plenty to work on before the season ahead.
