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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. This canny yet risky approach echoed an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their pack and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch attacks but unable to break through for thirty-two phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game was in the balance, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, Australia showed character, securing a key scrum then a infringement. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory that prepares them well for their European fixtures.