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In a bold strategy, Australia rested 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering several monster tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, as locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks yet failing to score over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker got disallowed twice due to questionable calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to close the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a key scrum then a penalty. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty win which sets them up for the upcoming European tour.