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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced much on the line after a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side started strongly, including hooker a key forward landing several monster hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, as two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation forced an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' line, hammering the defense via short-range punches yet failing to break through for 32 phases. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more energy after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after through the flanker powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty win that prepares them well for their European fixtures.