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With a daring strategy, Australia rested 13 key players and named their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win ends three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot on the line following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger stars an opportunity, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to break through for thirty-two rucks. After testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center breaking the line and assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with more energy in the second period, registering through a forward to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a key scrum then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which sets the squad up for the upcoming European fixtures.