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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice XV will strive to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test road trip. This shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as locks locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense via short-range attacks but failing to score over thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle without success, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking the line and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score by Carlo Tizzano got denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring through a forward to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win that prepares them well for their European tour.