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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named the team's most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger players their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side started with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era landing multiple big tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through over 32 phases. After probing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent try from a flanker got denied on two occasions due to questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the contest tight.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

The home team started with renewed vigor in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with the flanker scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum and a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory which prepares them up for their European tour.