Japan Defeat Wales Extend Record 18-Test Losing Streak

Japan secured a 24-19 victory over Wales in the first of their two rugby Tests in Kitakyushu, overcoming a 19-7 halftime deficit with a strong second-half performance. Wales, who have not won since October 2023 and are enduring a record 18-match losing streak for a Tier One nation, saw their hopes fade as Japan scored two late tries including one from debutant Halatoa Vailea. Wales coach Sherratt attributed the loss to the psychological toll of the prolonged losing streak rather than the hot weather conditions. Japan's fly-half Lee Seungsin highlighted their high-tempo playing style as a key factor in the comeback and expressed confidence from the win, their first over Wales since 2013. The defeat further damages Welsh rugby's efforts to rebuild after a heavy Six Nations loss to England and will drop Wales to 14th in the world rankings. Both teams scored three tries, but Japan's resilience in the second half proved decisive in the error-filled match.