Wallabies edge Japan 35-32 in Kiss's first match as coach

New Wallabies coach Les Kiss began his tenure with a hard-fought 35-32 victory over Japan in Osaka on Saturday, August 8, 2026, but the win was marred by a red card and a host of errors that allowed the hosts to mount a dramatic late comeback. The result, secured in sapping heat and humidity, gives Kiss a winning start but highlights significant areas for improvement ahead of the second Test in Townsville next weekend.

Australia trailed early after a try from Japan's flyhalf Ryunosuke Ito but responded with tries from Harry Potter and Tom Wright to take a 14-7 lead. The momentum shifted decisively when lock Miles Amatosero was shown a yellow card in the 32nd minute for a dangerous cleanout on Japan captain Warner Dearns. The sanction was upgraded to a 20-minute red card after review, leaving the Wallabies with 14 men. Japan capitalized immediately, with Faulua Makisi scoring to level the scores at 14-14 by halftime.

Despite being a man down, the Wallabies rallied after the break. Tries from Max Jorgensen and Fraser McReight, along with the kicking of Ryan Lonergan, helped build a 28-19 lead. Japan fought back with two penalties from Takuro Matsunaga before replacement prop...