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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced an already revamped Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via short-range attacks but unable to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following probing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with a center breaking through before setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with renewed energy after halftime, registering through a forward to close the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to restore an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key scrum then a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win that prepares the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.