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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, concerned about fatigue during a demanding five-week tour. The canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward delivering several monster hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks yet unable to break through for 32 rucks. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another potential try by a flanker got disallowed twice due to questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to restore a comfortable lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, securing a key set-piece and a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.