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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give younger stars their chance, concerned about fatigue during a demanding five-Test tour. The canny though daring approach mirrored a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing several big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks yet unable to break through for 32 rucks. After testing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line before assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try from a flanker got denied twice due to questionable rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial set-piece and a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory that sets the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.