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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. This shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with hooker a key forward landing several big hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, with two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped side to adapt the team's pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via short-range punches yet unable to score for 32 rucks. After probing central channels ineffectively, they finally went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line before setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score from a flanker got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, scoring through a forward to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.