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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. The canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began strongly, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, as two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches but unable to break through over thirty-two phases. Following testing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center slicing the line and assisting a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score from a flanker was disallowed twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match hung in the balance, as Japan pressing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that sets them up for their European tour.