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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their top lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had much to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd though daring approach echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with one-inch punches but failing to break through over thirty-two phases. Following testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano got denied on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, scoring via a forward to narrow the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win against Australia.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets them up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.