Overview
- The Wallabies squandered a 24-12 lead and lost 33-31 to Ireland in Sydney on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
- Ryan Lonergan left after 33 minutes with a head knock and Carter Gordon finished at 57 minutes because of cramp, disruptions that cost Australia control in the second half.
- Coach Joe Schmidt praised Carter Gordon’s running game and Ben Donaldson’s work after he came on, saying both halves showed game-driving influence despite the result.
- A string of unforced handling errors, poor goal-kicking and limited impact from the bench cost territory and points, and Ben Donaldson’s last-minute penalty attempt was pushed wide.
- The loss leaves the Wallabies facing a must-win Nations Championship fixture against France in Brisbane next week and continues Ireland’s run of six straight wins over Australia since 2018, raising questions about selection, fitness and World Cup preparation.