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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

The home side began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced an already reshuffled side to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with short-range punches but unable to score over 32 rucks. After testing the middle ineffectively, they finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more energy after halftime, scoring through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. With the score four points apart, the game was in the balance, with Japan pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum and a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.