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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began with intensity, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with short-range attacks but unable to break through over thirty-two phases. After probing the middle without success, they finally went wide from a scrum, with a center breaking through before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which prepares them well for their European fixtures.