With a number of incredible performances at this year's Rugby World Cup, hosts Japan have arrived at rugby's top table, says All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.
Four years on from their victory over South Africa at the 2015 World Cup in England, Japan have this year gone one step further in their own tournament.
The hosts have finished as winners of Pool A unbeaten, recording historic wins over both Ireland and Scotland, and will now face South Africa in their maiden quarter-final this weekend.
Speaking to media in Tokyo this afternoon, Hansen was quizzed on the rapid rise of the Brave Blossoms, responding in kind.
"Without a doubt, they'd have to be considered, they're playing and performing like a tier one nation," he said.
"They're now in the top eight in the world [rankings] on performance, they're playing quality rugby.
"I think Japan should be very, very proud of them. What a marvellous thing for the tournament. They've given the game a boost, they've given Japan rugby a boost, and they've given the Japan people a boost after what was a pretty horrific weekend."
Hansen also acknowledged comparisons between Japan and the All Blacks, coach Jamie Joseph bringing a Kiwi flair to the Brave Blossoms' play so far this World Cup.
"It's a good way to play footy. It's worked against Ireland, it's now worked against Scotland and their other pool opponent, Samoa.
"People have said who do you want to play, well they're the in-form team. I'm really happy they're on the other side of the draw."
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