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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks but failing to break through for thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with a center breaking the line before setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential score by a flanker got denied on two occasions due to questionable calls, summing up a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

Japan started with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the game hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the final stages, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares them well for their European fixtures.