Wales suffered a 24–19 loss to Japan in Kitakyushu, extending their record losing streak to 18 consecutive Tests and extending their 21-month wait for a win.
Despite leading 19–7 at halftime through tries by Ben Thomas, Tom Rogers, and a penalty try, Wales wilted in the stifling heat and humidity as Japan dominated the second half with three tries and nine points from Seungsin Lee.
The defeat drops Wales to 14th in the world rankings, below both Japan and Samoa, and leaves the team visibly emotional and demoralised.
Interim head coach Matt Sherratt urged his squad to channel their disappointment ahead of next week’s rematch in Kobe, while Japan coach Eddie Jones warned his side will be even stronger in the second Test.
Japan beating Whales, weve heard it all before