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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era landing multiple monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Injuries hit early, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with short-range punches yet unable to score for thirty-two phases. After testing central channels ineffectively, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential try from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions because of questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back quickly with the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic victory against Australia.

In the dying minutes, Australia showed character, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win which sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.