In a thrilling and nail-biting encounter at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Wales clinched a dramatic 24-23 victory over Japan on Saturday, marking their first home win in more than two years. The decisive moment came in the dying seconds when replacement back Jarrod Evans coolly slotted a penalty from outside the 22-meter line, close to the left touchline, after Japan’s ill-discipline gifted Wales a final opportunity. The win ended Wales’ record 10-match losing streak at home, dating back to August 2023. New Wales coach Steve Tandy, overseeing only his second match, couldn’t bear to watch the crucial kick, instead waiting in the hallway behind the coaches’ box. When Evans’ attempt sailed through the posts, Tandy embraced his assistants in relief. The match, which saw the lead change hands six times in the second half, was a rollercoaster of emotions and had significant implications for the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw. Wales’ victory ensures they retain their No. 12 world ranking, while Japan remains at No. 13, potentially setting up a tougher pool for Japan in the upcoming tournament. Despite the win, the match highlighted Wales’ recent struggles, as they had previously dominated Japan in all five home encounters by an average of 50 points. The game also featured standout performances, including Louis Rees-Zammit’s 15th test try and Seungsin Lee’s accurate penalty kicks for Japan. However, Japan’s late-game unraveling, including a yellow card for debutant Harry Hockings, ultimately handed Wales the chance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.