Wales suffer historic tenth straight defeat in thrilling loss to Fiji

Wales 19-24 Fiji, Cardiff

In a pulsating encounter at Cardiff's Principality Stadium, Wales suffered their tenth consecutive loss as Fiji staged a thrilling 24-19 comeback victory.

The defeat marks a new low for Warren Gatland's side, equalling a record losing streak last seen from 2002 to 2003. In a match packed with penalties, sin-bins, and overturned tries, Fiji's resilience shone through as they claimed a historic win, leaving Welsh fans and players alike searching for answers.

The contest started well for Wales, with debutant Blair Murray crossing the line just eight minutes in, putting the home team in front. The early try set an optimistic tone, only to see momentum shift rapidly.

Shortly after, Cameron Winnett appeared to have extended Wales’ lead, but the try was disallowed after the TMO spotted an illegal clear-out by flanker Tommy Reffell, resulting in Reffell being sent to the sin-bin.

The penalty try for Wales came soon after, awarded as Elia Canakaivata of Fiji was penalized and yellow-carded for collapsing a maul.

Fiji’s troubles deepened as their star winger Semi Radradra faced the referee’s scrutiny, first receiving a yellow card and subsequently a red card after a dangerous tackle on Winnett. Despite these setbacks, Fiji fought back with vigor.

Even with Fiji a man down, the visitors narrowed the score with a stunning breakaway try by Caleb Muntz at the 25-minute mark. Fiji’s attack, led by Muntz’s pace, brought them within four points.

Although Fiji lost a potential penalty try due to an obstruction ruling on a maul, they continued to push, and Wales looked poised to capitalize on Fiji’s mistakes.

With the second half underway, Fiji restored their full squad, bringing Top 14 star Sireli Maqala off the bench to replace the dismissed Radradra. The Fijians capitalized on renewed energy as Josua Tuisova crossed over the line, putting the visitors in the lead and leaving Wales scrambling for a response.

In response, Wales’ replacement Ellis Bevan made an immediate impact, diving over the try line to bring Wales back into contention.

With time running out, Fiji appeared to have scored again through full-back Vuate Karawalevu, but the try was called back due to a forward pass. However, Muntz, undeterred, slotted a penalty in the final minutes, sealing the 24-19 victory for Fiji.

The loss leaves Wales facing serious questions as they struggle to end their losing streak ahead of their next test.

Team line up:

Wales: Winnett; Grady, Llewellyn, B Thomas, Murray; Anscombe, T Williams; G Thomas, Lake (capt), Griffin, Rowlands, Beard, Plumtree, Reffell, Wainwright.

Reserves: Elias, N Smith, Assiratti, Tshiunza, Botham, J Morgan, Bevan, Costelow.

Fiji: Karawalevu; Wainiqolo, Nayacalevu (capt), Tuisova, Radradra; Muntz, Lomani; Mawi, Ikanivere, Tawake, Nasilasila, Mayanavanua, Derenalagi, Salawa, Canakaivata.

Reserves: Matavesi, Hetet, Koroiduadua, Vocevoce, Tuisue, Kuruvoli, Ravula, Maqala.