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With a daring strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, where their top XV will strive to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-Test tour. The canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started strongly, with hooker a key forward delivering several big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required an already revamped side to adjust the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks yet unable to score over thirty-two phases. After testing central channels without success, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking through and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period for Australia. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after with the flanker powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for a historic win against Australia.

During the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a key scrum then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.