Underdogs Uruguay pull off historic Fiji shock at Rugby World Cup in Japan

Fiji's centre Levani Botia (L) is is tackled by Uruguay's centre Juan Manuel Cat during the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup Pool D match between Fiji and Uruguay at the Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium in Kamaishi on September 25, 2019. [AFP]

Minnows Uruguay pulled off the greatest upset in their history on Wednesday as they stunned Fiji 30-27 to leave the Pacific islanders staring at an early exit from the Rugby World Cup.

John McKee's Fiji had showcased their traditional running flair in a thrilling first 60 minutes against Australia, when they led the much-fancied Wallabies. But they ran out of steam in an error-strewn performance against Uruguay four days later.