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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game slide and keeps Australia's unblemished track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. The canny though daring approach echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple monster hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

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

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' line, pounding the defense with short-range punches yet failing to break through over 32 rucks. Following probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with a center slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets them up for the upcoming European fixtures.