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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's top XV will strive to repeat last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. This canny though daring move mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit early, with two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense with one-inch punches but unable to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels without success, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking through and setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try by a flanker got disallowed twice because of dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest close.

Late Action and Tense Finish

Japan started with more vigor in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the match was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets them well for their European tour.