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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing several monster hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced an already revamped side to adjust the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks yet unable to score for thirty-two rucks. After probing the middle without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent try from a flanker got disallowed twice due to questionable calls, summing up an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through a forward to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial set-piece and a infringement. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad up for the upcoming European fixtures.