An exhausted South Africa fan was left open-mouthed after cycling over 26,700 miles to the Rugby World Cup, only to see his beloved South Africa lose to lowly Japan.

Former banker and amateur player Ron Rutland trekked across Africa and Europe, timing his arrival to coincide with the Springboks' Pool B opener against the Brave Blossoms. But rather than the expected procession for the two-time world champions, what Rutland saw was the biggest upset in World Cup history.

Japan stunned Heyneke Meyer's side with a last-minute try to win 34-32 - their first World Cup victory for 24 years. Rutland left Durban in August 2013 to witness the match, after paying a visit to almost every country in Africa as part of a fundraising effort for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

I'm looking for +ve's; my great mate, & Paris to Brighton legend, Matt, photobombing the Japanese celebrations is it! pic.twitter.com/MiSt38esks

— Ron Rutland (@RonRutland) September 19, 2015

"I was not expecting that," he told the Telegraph. "It was the biggest upset in rugby history and it felt like I was watching a movie, I just could not believe it what I had just witnessed. I was absolutely gob-smacked. To be such a big fan and come all this way to see that was just surreal."

The 41-year-old retired as a banker to organise rugby tournaments and had initially planned to cycle round Africa. But when he worked out how long the journey would take, he realised he could relocate the finish line to Brighton in time for the World Cup clash.

"It has been an amazing experience," he said. "Despite the defeat it was incredible to watch the reaction. South African fans can, if I'm honest, be a little bit arrogant but they were applauding Japanese supporters in restaurants and in the street after the game."

Rather than give his legs a rest, however, Rutland intends to cycle to each of the Springboks' remaining three pool games.

"I think I will fly home though," he said.

© 2015 Getty Images/2015 Getty Images