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With a daring move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game slide and keeps Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much to lose following a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, including front-rower a key forward landing several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, pounding the defense with short-range punches yet unable to break through for 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty win which sets the squad up for their European fixtures.