In pictures: Ireland's defeat to Japan

Shock in Shizuoka as Japan claim vital win against Ireland

Joe Schmidt's Ireland fell to a surprise defeat to hosts Japan in the second Pool A match of their Rugby World Cup campaign.

The result has blown the group wide open, with the Brave Blossoms now in the driving seat, leaving Ireland with the unenviable prospect of a quarter-final encounter with the All Blacks.

We've compiled the pictures that tell the story of the game, which you can view below.

Conor Murray in the Ireland dressing room ahead of the game. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Irish fans inside the stadium were in good spirits ahead of the game.

Fans in the Shizuoka Stadium. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Joe Schmidt shares a joke with Japan attack coach Tony Brown and head coach Jamie Joseph before kick-off.

Joe Schmidt with Tony Brown and Jamie Joseph. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Spare a thought for Jack Conan, whose Rugby World Cup campaign is over. Conan will be returning to Ireland after suffering a fracture in his foot.

Jack Conan ahead of the game. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Ireland started the game well, with Garry Ringrose scoring the opening try of the game.

Garry Rinrose scores Ireland's opening try. ©INPHO/Jayne Russell

Rob Kearney added to Ireland's tally shortly after, with Jack Carty instrumental in both scores.

Rob Kearney crossing the line. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Ireland didn't have it all their own way however, and Japan were unrelenting in the tackle.

Ireland's Jack Carty with Ryoto Nakamura of Japan. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Japan were in the ascendancy in the second half and made their dominance show on the scoreboard.

Ireland's Iain Henderson, Garry Ringrose and Jacob Stockdale with Kotaro Matsushima of Japan. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

With the game finishing 19-12 in Japan's favour, it was time for the hosts to celebrate.

Contrasting emotions at the final whistle. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Ireland were shellshocked at the final whistle, but will need to re-group ahead of their clash with Russia in five days' time.

A dejected Rory Best after the game. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan