Sean Lynn's side secure a comfortable 29-5 victory in Kumagaya City to finish their campaign with three wins.
Wales completed a dominant WXV double over Japan with a comfortable 29-5 victory in Kumagaya City on October 31, 2026. Head coach Sean Lynn watched his squad seal their third win of the Global Series.
The commanding performance marked a complete transformation for the Welsh side, who had previously gone nine Tests without a victory before facing South Africa.
Japan remains winless since May and is still searching for their first victory under head coach Toshizumi Kitagawa, according to information published by BBC.
Dominant First Half Sets the Tone for Wales
Wales had the better of the early exchanges in Kumagaya City, benefiting from a loose goalline drop-out by the hosts. Co-captain Alex Callender thundered the ball deep into the 22.
Wing Nel Metcalfe opened the scoring in the corner after a strong build-up, with Lleucu George adding the conversion. Japan briefly responded through hooker Moe Nagaoka, who scored from a driving maul.
Set-Piece Power and Forward Dominance
Despite a disjointed backline performance, the visiting Welsh pack proved unstoppable at the set-piece. Hooker Kelsey Jones crossed for her second try in as many games following a successful line-out.
Prop Sisilia Tuipulotu added a bonus-point try early in the second half after Japanese player Jennifer Nduka was sent to the sin bin for an accumulation of penalties.
Defensive Resilience Despite Late Yellow Cards
Wales secured their final try when Callender delivered a wide pass to Lisa Neumann, who fed Amy Williams for her second score of the evening, marking a rare successful move from the backs.
Late indiscipline reduced Wales to 13 players after replacements Keira Bevan and Hannah Dallavalle received yellow cards, but co-captain Kate Williams led a resolute defensive effort to keep Japan scoreless in the dying minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between Wales and Japan in the WXV Global Series?
Wales defeated Japan 29-5 in Kumagaya City on October 31, 2026, completing a double over the Sakura Fifteen in the WXV Global Series.
Who scored the tries for Wales against Japan?
Nel Metcalfe, Kelsey Jones, Sisilia Tuipulotu, and Amy Williams, who scored two tries, crossed the whitewash for Wales during the five-try victory.
How many wins did Wales finish the WXV Global Series with?
Wales finished the Global Series with three wins from four matches, with their only defeat coming against the USA under head coach Sean Lynn.
Why were Welsh players yellow-carded late in the match?
Keira Bevan was sent to the sin bin for a penalty infringement while Wales was on a warning, and Hannah Dallavalle received a yellow card for a hair pull.
