🔗 Share this article

In a bold move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game slide and maintains Australia's perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist chose to give younger stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-week road trip. The canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck early, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet failing to score over 32 phases. After probing the middle without success, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential try from a flanker was denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which sets them well for their European fixtures.