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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan started strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to break through for 32 phases. Following probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more energy after halftime, scoring through a forward to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win that sets them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.