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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory ends three-match slide and keeps Australia's perfect track record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players their chance, concerned about tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan started with intensity, with hooker a key forward delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks yet failing to score over 32 rucks. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide 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 Resilience

A further apparent score from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with more energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key scrum and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory which prepares them well for their European tour.