Japan Ends Wales Rugby Winless Streak At 18 Matches In Kitakyushu

Wales rugby team extended their record losing streak to 18 consecutive test defeats after a 24-19 loss to Japan in the first match of a two-Test series in Kitakyushu. Wales led 19-7 at halftime with tries from Ben Thomas and Tom Rogers plus a penalty try, but Japan staged a strong second-half comeback with tries from Takuro Matsunaga, Ichigo Nakakusu, and Halatoa Vailea, supported by Seungsin Lee's nine points from kicks. This victory marked only Japan’s second-ever win against Wales in 15 matches and their first since 2013, a feat also achieved under coach Eddie Jones. Wales captain Dewi Lake and interim coach Matt Sherratt acknowledged missed opportunities and the team's lack of clinical execution despite a promising start. The match was played under hot and humid conditions, which Japan’s coach Eddie Jones believed favored their style of play. Wales, now ranked 14th in the world, look to use this defeat as motivation for the second Test in Kobe as they seek to break their prolonged winless run.