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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record against Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. The shrewd though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks but failing to break through for 32 phases. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice due to questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to close the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a grubber, letting a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win that sets them up for their European fixtures.