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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players their chance, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches but unable to break through over thirty-two rucks. After probing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent try from a flanker got denied twice due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with more energy after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting a winger to score. At 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory that prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.