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With a daring move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much on the line following a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue during a demanding five-Test tour. The shrewd yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This required the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but unable to break through over 32 rucks. After probing the middle without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score by a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

Japan came out with more energy after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory over Australia.

During the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial scrum then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win that prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.