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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced much on the line following a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks but unable to score over 32 rucks. Following testing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with a center slicing through before setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try by a flanker got disallowed twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win over Australia.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory that prepares the squad up for the upcoming European fixtures.