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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. The canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required the already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks yet unable to break through over 32 phases. Following testing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with a center slicing the line and assisting a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback fumbled a kick, letting a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the match was in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a key scrum and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory which prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.