In an electrifying match held at Mikuni World Stadium in Kitakyushu, Japan stunned Wales by scoring a late try, extending Wales’ dismal winless streak in rugby to 18 matches. The event marked the first test of Japan’s summer tour and showcased the impressive tenacity of the Japanese team, led by the strategic mind of coach Eddie Jones. Despite being significantly challenged by the scorching climate, with temperatures soaring to 34 degrees Celsius and high humidity, Japan managed to claim victory with a final score of 24-19.
Wales seemed to have a grasp on the match initially, leading 19-7 at half-time after securing tries from Ben Thomas, a penalty try, and Tom Rogers. However, the relentless heat took its toll on the Welsh players as the game wore on. Wales lost their lock Ben Carter after just 24 seconds due to an injury, and this early disruption seemed to set the tone for the challenges that lay ahead. The second half illustrated their struggle as they failed to score any points while Japan surged to a commanding comeback.
Japan displayed remarkable resilience, scoring all the points in the second half. Their victory was cemented by Halatoa Vailea’s well-timed try in the 71st minute, which ultimately pushed them ahead of Wales. The Japanese side was inspired by their captain Michael Leitch, who, at 36 years old, played a pivotal role in the team’s performance, motivating his teammates at crucial moments during the match.
The bears a testament to the strategic preparation of the Japanese team under Eddie Jones. This was not only a significant win for Japan, who claimed their second victory over Wales, but it was particularly poignant given that Jones had also orchestrated their previous triumph against the Welsh team in 2013. As a result of the loss, the Welsh team found themselves slipping an unprecedented two spots down the World Rugby rankings to 14th place, now trailing Japan and Samoa. Wales’ situation was further compounded by a staggering 21-month gap without a Test win, raising serious questions about their current form and future trajectory.
The match clock stretched over two full hours, primarily due to the extreme playing conditions. Water breaks were instituted during each half, which, along with an extended halftime, were necessitated by World Rugby’s newly enforced heat and air quality guidelines. The Welsh Rugby Union had even requested to push back kick-off to later in the day, a suggestion turned down by the Japanese side in favor of maintaining the original start time.
Reflecting on the match dynamics, it was clear how critical the hydration breaks and the adjustments made had been, especially for players who had initially trained in cooler conditions. The Welsh team, despite their preparation in both their home country and Japan, struggled to maintain their composure and energy in the latter stages of the game, succumbing to pressure from the Japanese side, who capitalized on grassroots enthusiasm for the sport.
Japan’s persistence and tactical gameplay saw them not only responding effectively to Wales’s inquiries but also finding creative solutions through players like Takuro Matsunaga and Ichigo Nakakusu. The crowds in the Mikuni World Stadium witnessed what was only the second rugby international ever held at the venue, echoing the supportive spirit found during the 2019 World Cup, further strengthening the bond between the fans and the players.
As the teams look forward to their rematch in Kobe on July 12, the Welsh team aims to bounce back and rectify their ongoing misfortunes. Coach Matt Sherratt will need to reinforce team morale and cohesion to overcome what has logically become a critical juncture in their campaign. A renewed focus on conditioning and strategy will be essential for Wales if they hope to reclaim their winning edge against a reinvigorated Japanese team that is seemingly rising in the ranks of international rugby.
