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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice XV will strive to replicate previous thrilling win over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test road trip. This canny though daring approach mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan started strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Injuries hit early, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with short-range punches but unable to break through over 32 phases. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team started with more vigor in the second period, scoring via a forward to close the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting a winger to score. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that prepares them up for their European tour.