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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced a lot on the line following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test tour. The canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era landing several monster hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks but failing to score over 32 phases. After testing the middle without success, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center breaking through before setting up a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker was denied on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period for Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was in the balance, with Japan pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win that prepares them up for the upcoming European fixtures.