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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced much on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward landing multiple monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, with two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to score for thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle without success, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score by a flanker got denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the contest tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team started with renewed energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that prepares the squad well for their European tour.