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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already reshuffled side to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defense with short-range attacks yet failing to break through over thirty-two phases. Following testing the middle ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line and assisting a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery weather, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

The home team started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to cross. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a key set-piece then a penalty. The team held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win that sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.