Wales vs Australia: Report - International Test Match 2025
17th November 2024
Wales and Australia clashed in an intense International Test Match on 17th November 2024 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. The match was a hard-fought battle, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Australia ultimately emerged victorious, securing a well-deserved win against a resilient Wales side.
First Half: A Tight Contest
The first half of the match set the tone for an evenly matched encounter. Wales started strongly, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. However, Australia's defense held firm, preventing Wales from capitalizing on their chances.
Australia gradually grew into the game, using their physicality and set-piece prowess to put pressure on the Welsh. The Wallabies' forwards proved to be a formidable force, securing crucial turnovers and laying the platform for their attacking plays.
Second Half: Australia's Dominance
The second half witnessed a shift in momentum in Australia's favor. The Wallabies came out with renewed intensity, exploiting Wales' defensive lapses and creating scoring opportunities.
Australia's backline, led by fly-half Quade Cooper, orchestrated several incisive attacks. Cooper's pinpoint kicking and playmaking ability created space for his outside backs, who punished Wales with clinical finishing.
Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Victory
Despite Wales' valiant efforts, Australia's clinical execution proved too much to overcome. The Wallabies' victory was a testament to their superior physicality, set-piece dominance, and attacking flair.
Wales can take heart from their spirited performance, but they will need to address their defensive frailties and improve their attacking efficiency if they are to challenge the top teams in the world.
Key Match Statistics
- Possession: Wales 52%, Australia 48%
- Territory: Wales 47%, Australia 53%
- Penalties: Wales 9, Australia 6
- Lineouts: Wales 12/16 (75%), Australia 14/16 (87.5%)
- Scrums: Wales 6/8 (75%), Australia 7/8 (87.5%)
Man of the Match: Quade Cooper (Australia)
Quade Cooper was instrumental in Australia's victory, dictating the play with his astute passing and kicking. His pinpoint accuracy and ability to create space for his teammates proved to be Wales' undoing.
