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With a daring move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends three-match slide and keeps Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose following a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch attacks but failing to break through for 32 rucks. After probing central channels without success, they finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking through and setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent score from a flanker got disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

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

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, as Japan pressing for a historic win against Australia.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece and a infringement. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which sets them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.