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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, Australia faced much on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. This canny yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, with two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defense via one-inch punches yet unable to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following probing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line and assisting a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try from a flanker got denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more energy in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad up for their European tour.