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With a daring strategy, Australia rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record versus Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their top lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced much on the line following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players their chance, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd though daring approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side started strongly, with hooker Hayate Era landing several big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks yet unable to score over 32 phases. Following probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

Japan started with more vigor after halftime, registering via a forward to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key scrum and a infringement. They held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets them well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.