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With a daring move, Australia rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their top lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced much on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger players an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-Test tour. The canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, including hooker a key forward delivering several big hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, as two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through for 32 rucks. After testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker got denied on two occasions due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed energy after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum then a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.