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With a daring strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, in which their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week tour. The shrewd though daring approach echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via short-range punches yet unable to break through over 32 phases. Following probing the middle without success, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker got denied on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring through a forward to narrow the gap to six points. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, with the underdogs pushing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

During the dying minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which prepares them well for the upcoming European fixtures.