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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players their chance, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week tour. This canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with hooker a key forward delivering several monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced the already revamped side to adapt their pack and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks but failing to break through over 32 rucks. After probing central channels without success, they eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try from a flanker was disallowed twice due to questionable calls, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, winning a key set-piece then a penalty. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.