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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will aim to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia had much on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. The canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall with one-inch punches yet failing to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory that sets them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.