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**Wales Edges Japan in Kobe, Denying Historic Series Sweep**

**KOBE, JAPAN –** Japan’s national rugby team fell short of a historic series victory against Wales, losing 31-22 at Noevir Stadium Kobe on Sunday. After a triumphant 24-19 victory in the first test match in Kitakyushu, Japan was aiming for their first-ever consecutive wins against a High-Performance Union (formerly Tier 1) nation.

Wales came out strong, applying significant pressure at the breakdown, disrupting Japan’s signature “ultra-fast rugby” attack. This slowed Japan’s ball delivery and prevented them from establishing the same tempo seen in the second half of the first test. A try by replacement prop Shuhei Takeuchi briefly ignited a comeback after Wales built a 21-3 lead, pulling Japan within two points. However, Wales ultimately proved too strong.

The match highlighted Japan’s need to strengthen its player depth, particularly at wing. The absence of players who excel in both attack and defense, a la Kenki Fukuoka and Kotaro Matsushima from the 2019 World Cup, was noted as a key area for improvement.

Looking ahead, Japan faces a challenging Autumn Nations Series with away matches against Australia, Ireland, and Wales. The match against Australia, currently ranked eighth in the world, will be a crucial test of Japan’s progress. The team will also look to challenge Ireland and avenge their loss against Wales.

With just two years remaining until the next World Cup, former Japan international and current Samurai Seven representative noted the urgency to address these issues to achieve their goal of reaching the top four in the world. He highlighted the potential of players like Jone Naikabula if they can improve their defensive game. The Autumn Nations Series will serve as a critical evaluation period before the World Cup preparations intensify.

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