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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's unblemished track record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where their top XV will strive to replicate previous dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward delivering several big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range attacks but unable to score for 32 rucks. After testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking through before assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try from Carlo Tizzano got denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan struck back when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum and a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.