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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will strive to replicate previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test tour. The canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This required an already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch attacks but unable to score over 32 phases. Following testing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another potential try from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano powering over close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which sets them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.