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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger stars their chance, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required the already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of questionable calls, summing up an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, with the underdogs pressing for a historic win over Australia.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a key scrum and a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets the squad well for their European fixtures.