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In a bold move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record against Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where their first-choice XV will strive to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began strongly, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Injuries struck early, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced an already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense via short-range attacks yet unable to score over thirty-two rucks. After testing central channels without success, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another potential try by a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

Japan started with more energy after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly through Tizzano powering over close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win that sets them well for the upcoming European fixtures.