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With a daring move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their top XV will aim to replicate previous dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much to lose following a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players their chance, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. The canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began strongly, including hooker a key forward landing multiple big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, as locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already revamped side to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet unable to score over thirty-two phases. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and assisting a teammate for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions because of questionable calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Late Action and Tense Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum and a infringement. They stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.