Fiji had never beaten Wales in Cardiff, but records are made to be broken. An impressive second-half performance, orchestrated by fly-half Caleb Muntz and captain Waisea Nayacalevu, saw the Flying Fijians secure a famous victory in the Welsh capital, continuing the losing streak for Warren Gatland’s team.

Wales had not been defeated in 10 successive Tests since their losing streak of 2002 and 2003. This was a record Gatland’s team had hoped to avoid, but Fiji avenged their narrow loss at the Rugby World Cup just over a year ago.

History was made not only in Fiji’s win but also with the first 20-minute red card in a northern hemisphere game. The Autumn Nations Series is trialling a law allowing teams to replace the penalised player after they have been in the sin-bin for 20 minutes. The red card was given to Fiji’s Semi Radradra in the first half after a bunker review upgraded a yellow card following a dangerous tackle on Cam Winnett.

The first 40 minutes were inconsistent for both sides, with early attacking chances missed. However, it was Wales who capitalized first when a fast-paced move saw debutant Ben Murray score. Winnett thought he had added another try, but the TMO intervened. A dangerous clearout from Tommy Reffell resulted in a sin-binning, and the try was ruled out. Fiji were then reduced to 14 players as Elia Canakaivata collapsed a maul, and a penalty try was awarded to the hosts. The visitors’ woes continued with Radradra’s red card.

Fiji responded with a superb solo effort from Muntz. They continued to press the Welsh defensive wall and thought they had scored a penalty try, but the decision was overturned. Wales led 14-10 at halftime.

Two penalties from Muntz put Fiji ahead, but Wales’s sloppiness, including knock-ons and wild passes, stalled their momentum. Fiji capitalized with Josua Tuisova scoring. The loudest noise of the afternoon came as Ellis Bevan crashed over, but a missed conversion from Gareth Anscombe kept Fiji ahead. Muntz extended the lead with another penalty.

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as the clock ticked up to 80 minutes. Wales had a final chance to win, but they could not convert, sealing the victory for Fiji. The autumn Tests do not get any easier for Wales, who host Australia next weekend, while Fiji travel to Ireland.

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