Georgia all but guaranteed themselves of automatic qualification for the next Rugby World Cup in Japan after captain Mamuka Gorgodze inspired them to a nervy 17-16 win over Namibia at Sandy Park in Exeter.

However, that does not tell the whole story of a remarkable match, both in length and drama, which can be seen again on live stream this Sunday, at 16:00 BST, via the official Rugby World Cup Facebook page or World Rugby’s YouTube channel.

After a bruising first half that lasted an incredible 49 minutes and saw three players sent to the sin-bin, Namibia led 6-0 and sensed they could be on course to achieve their first-ever win at a Rugby World Cup at the 18th attempt.

Two Theuns Kotze penalties had put them in front but while the fly-half would go on to score all of his side’s 16 points on the day – a tournament record for a Welwitschias player – Georgia’s power upfront just about tipped the balance their way.

In a dominant six-minute spell between the 50th and 56th minutes, Georgia scored twice through talisman and captain Mamuka Gorgodze and Lasha Malaguradze to lead 14-6.

Evergreen full-back Merab Kvirikashvili (pictured) added a penalty with 12 minutes to go but 10 points from Theuns Kotze, including a try, ensured a nervous final four minutes for the Lelos to hold on.

History made

New Zealand’s routine win against Tonga two days later confirmed Georgia as the third-place team in Pool C, and history had been made.

While the one-point winning margin against Namibia was the smallest of RWC 2015, for the standing of Georgian rugby as a whole, direct qualification as one of the top 12 ranked teams was a massive game-changer.

"It was one of those really ugly games, but we still managed to win it," said head coach Milton Haig.

"Whether you create history with a one-point win or a 20-point win, it doesn't really matter.

"Today that's what we've managed to do for Georgian rugby. I'm very proud of being part of that process."