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With a daring strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, Australia had a lot to lose following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test road trip. This shrewd yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required an already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall with one-inch punches yet unable to score over thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score by a flanker was denied twice because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker powering over close in to restore a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory over Australia.

During the dying minutes, Australia showed character, securing a key set-piece then a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory that sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.