New Zealand vs Japan Predictions & Tips - Japan can scare All Blacks

New Zealand have won all four of their previous matches against Japan. They last played in 2018 where the All Blacks won 69-31 in Tokyo.

New Zealand begin their tour to the Northern Hemisphere this weekend with a game against Japan. 

The All Blacks won the Rugby Championship a couple of months ago but there are still many questions surrounding the team. Ian Foster has been under big pressure but he has gotten results at the right times thus far.

While Japan are no longer the minnows they were back in 1995 when New Zealand beat them 145-17 at the Rugby World Cup, the All Blacks will still be confident of seeing them off.

Stephen Perofeta finally gets a chance to start at fullback. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck also gets a start in midfield.

Japan rugby has grown hugely over the last decade. They are now seen as a proper force in world rugby, especially after making the quarter-final at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Over the last seven years Japan have beaten South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. They may not be given much chance against the All Blacks but they have plenty of quality within their side.

Japan have selected a strong side for this fixture. They have Yutaka Nagare at scrumhalf, easily one of their better players. Kotaro Matsushima is deadly on the wing.