**Tactical Shift: All Blacks Vs Japan Under Robertson**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 27, 2024

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Tactical Shift: All Blacks vs Japan Under Robertson

The All Blacks' recent tour of Japan saw a fascinating clash of styles, as Ian Foster's side faced a formidable opponent in the Brave Blossoms, coached by the former All Blacks assistant, Jamie Joseph. This encounter marked a significant period for both nations, with the All Blacks transitioning under new coach, Scott Robertson, and Japan continuing their steady climb in world rugby.

Robertson's Vision for the All Blacks

The appointment of Scott Robertson as head coach has signaled a potential shift in the All Blacks' tactical approach. Known for his attacking philosophy and innovative strategies during his time with the Crusaders, Robertson has brought a fresh perspective to the team, emphasizing speed, width, and attacking flair.

Japan's Rise Under Joseph

Under the leadership of Jamie Joseph, Japan has consistently shown its progress in international rugby. Joseph, who honed his coaching skills alongside Steve Hansen during his time with the All Blacks, has instilled a disciplined, structured, and resilient style of play in his team. This approach has seen Japan consistently challenge top-tier teams, as witnessed in their historic win over Ireland in 2019.

The Tactical Battleground

The clash between the All Blacks and Japan on the recent tour offered a glimpse into the tactical evolution of both teams.

The All Blacks aimed to capitalize on their superior speed and athleticism, employing fast ball movement and wide attacking strategies. They looked to stretch the Japanese defense, creating space for their renowned backs to exploit.

Japan, on the other hand, employed a more controlled and disciplined approach, focusing on organized defense and structured attacks. Their reliance on set pieces and powerful scrummaging was evident, aiming to disrupt the All Blacks' rhythm and create opportunities for their own attacking options.

The Impact of Robertson's Philosophy

While the All Blacks showcased flashes of their attacking brilliance, the series against Japan revealed some areas needing improvement. Their reliance on individual brilliance at times overshadowed their collective structure, and the lack of consistency in their attacking execution proved costly in certain moments.

Robertson's emphasis on "playing for the jersey" and building a "team culture" has been a key focus in his initial months in charge. The challenges faced during this tour against Japan highlight the need for greater cohesion and a more cohesive tactical execution to fully implement Robertson's vision.

Looking Ahead

The encounter between these two nations, each under the guidance of former All Blacks assistants, offers a glimpse into the future of international rugby. Japan's continued rise, combined with Robertson's innovative approach, will likely lead to more exciting clashes in the years to come.

This series provided a valuable learning experience for both sides. The All Blacks will need to refine their tactical approach to fully leverage Robertson's offensive vision, while Japan will continue to build on their strengths and aim for further breakthroughs on the world stage. The future of these two rugby powerhouses remains exciting, with both nations poised to play significant roles in shaping the game's evolution.