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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match slide and keeps Australia's unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing several monster tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to break through over thirty-two phases. After testing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with a center slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker was denied twice due to questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating first half for Australia. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan started with more energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia responded quickly with Tizzano powering over close in to restore a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At four points apart, the match hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win against Australia.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.