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In a bold strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot on the line following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger players their chance, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test tour. The canny though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall with one-inch attacks but unable to break through over thirty-two rucks. Following testing the middle without success, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, with a center breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker was denied twice due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a kick, letting a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory that sets them well for their European tour.