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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game slide and maintains Australia's perfect track record against Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defense via short-range attacks yet failing to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly through Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the game was in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which prepares them up for the upcoming European fixtures.