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With a daring strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game slide and maintains Australia's perfect record against Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test tour. The canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side started strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing several big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' line, hammering the defense with short-range punches yet unable to score for thirty-two rucks. Following probing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center breaking through and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad well for their European tour.