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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defense with one-inch punches yet unable to score for 32 rucks. Following testing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory that prepares them up for the upcoming European tour.