🔗 Share this article

With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated 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 three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their top lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week tour. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began strongly, including hooker a key forward delivering several big tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required an already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches yet failing to score over 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line and setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed energy after halftime, registering through a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the dying minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty win which prepares them well for their European tour.