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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps Australia's perfect record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot to lose following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. The canny though daring approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, as two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches but unable to score over 32 rucks. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and a center slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key set-piece then a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory that sets them up for the upcoming European tour.