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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top lineup will aim to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot to lose following a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to give younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. The shrewd yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing multiple monster tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via one-inch punches but unable to score over thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for Australia. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back after the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to cross. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key set-piece then a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win which prepares the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.