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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice XV will aim to replicate previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-week road trip. The canny though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several big hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced the already reshuffled side to adjust their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to score over 32 rucks. After probing central channels ineffectively, they finally went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential score by a flanker got disallowed twice due to questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

The home team started with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after with the flanker powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung in the balance, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win against Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece then a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that prepares the squad well for their European tour.