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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record against Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their top lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled side to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly near their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through over thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent score by a flanker was disallowed twice because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after through the flanker powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting a winger to cross. At four points apart, the match was in the balance, with the underdogs pressing for a historic victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win that sets them up for their European tour.