🔗 Share this article

In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will aim to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced much on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple big hits to rattle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, as locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks yet unable to score over 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further apparent try from a flanker was disallowed twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly through Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back after the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to score. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, winning a key scrum and a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory that prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.