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In a bold move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will aim to replicate previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had a lot on the line after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger stars their chance, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced the already revamped side to adjust the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range punches yet unable to break through for 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center slicing through and setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed energy after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with the flanker scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. They held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which sets the squad well for their European tour.