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With a daring strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their top XV will strive to replicate previous thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot to lose following a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan began with intensity, including hooker a key forward landing several monster tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced an already reshuffled side to adapt the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch attacks yet unable to break through over 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more energy in the second period, scoring via a forward to close the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which prepares the squad well for the upcoming European fixtures.