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In a bold move, Australia rested 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. The shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Wallabies experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, as two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This required the already revamped side to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks but failing to break through over 32 phases. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with a center slicing through before setting up a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, scoring via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets them well for their European tour.