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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's unblemished 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 replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia had much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to give younger stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-Test road trip. The canny though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, as two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall via short-range attacks but unable to score over 32 phases. Following probing the middle without success, they finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent score from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of questionable calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed energy after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for a historic win over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a key scrum then a penalty. The team held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets them well for their European tour.