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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced 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 a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced much on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-Test road trip. This shrewd yet risky move mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed for long spells near their opponents' line, pounding the defense with short-range attacks yet unable to break through over thirty-two phases. After testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try from a flanker was disallowed twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with more energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win against Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a key scrum then a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets them well for the upcoming European fixtures.