In an electrifying display of resilience, the Welsh rugby team managed to break an 18-match international losing streak by triumphing over Japan with a score of 31-22 at the Noevir Stadium in Kobe. This significant victory marked Wales’ first international win in 644 days, ending a daunting period of defeat since their last win against Georgia in October 2023. As they ventured into this summer tour’s second Test, the Welsh players were not only battling their opponents but also the pressure of history, aiming to avoid a record-setting 19 successive losses that would have surpassed France’s infamous record set between 1911 and 1920.
The match began with a high-stakes tension as both teams were under immense pressure; Wales aimed to stop their losing run while Japan sought a historic series victory against a Tier One nation. Wales took early control of the match, surging to a 21-3 lead, primarily through the impressive performances of scrum-half Kieran Hardy, who scored two tries, and another try from wing Josh Adams. The score was capped off by a successful conversion and penalty goals from Dan Edwards, who notably made his first international start after being introduced by interim head coach Matt Sherratt.
However, Japan, under the guidance of coach Eddie Jones, was far from finished. Demonstrating their fighting spirit, the Brave Blossoms rallied with back-to-back tries from prop Shuhei Takeuchi, lock Warner Deans, and centre Dylan Riley, inching closer to Wales with a score of 21-22 before Edwards’ late try sealed the match, ensuring the visitors emerged victorious.
The match was defined by its intense conditions, with players facing sweltering heat and humidity. The closed roof of the stadium, which raised the temperature to a stifling 32C with 67% humidity, was somewhat of an irony for Welsh fans familiar with similar discussions regarding the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. World Rugby mandated water breaks and extended halftime in recognition of the severe conditions, and both teams had to adapt quickly to maintain their performance levels.
Wales began the match carefully, trading early kicks and trying to establish rhythm despite a few handling errors. However, standout moments came when Ospreys centre Ben Thomas displayed excellent vision, providing the pass to Murray before finally finding Adams for the opening try. As Wales found their footing, they shifted from caution to aggression, establishing a series of dominant lineouts that pressured Japan, leading to a yellow card for Japanese number eight Faulua Makisi.
The first half saw a significant turnaround when Japan, after replacing their front row just before halftime, saw immediate results as the new trio drew a scrum penalty, allowing Takeuchi to score. The first half concluded with Wales leading 21-10, but Japan’s resurgence hinted at a competitive second half, with the hosts desperate to strike back.
As the second half began, it became evident that the intensity of the match did not diminish. Japan’s momentum surged as they exploited Welsh errors, culminating in another try from Deans. However, the match swung again as Wales retained control with Edwards scoring another try, demonstrating that they could weather the pressure despite moments of indiscipline and injury reshuffles, which notably saw Keelan Giles earn his first cap after a long wait of nine years.
Ultimately, this fixture was not only a display of athletic prowess but also a testament to the spirit of both teams. Wales can now move forward with renewed hope and confidence, while Japan will reflect on their strong performances, knowing they too are an emerging force in the world of rugby. The outcome held significance far beyond the scoreboard, as the Welsh Rugby Union prepares to appoint a new head coach, with their next chapter set in the wake of this revitalizing win.
