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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game slide and keeps Australia's perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give younger stars their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This required the already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks yet unable to score over thirty-two rucks. After testing central channels without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking the line before setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker got denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly through the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for a historic win over Australia.

During the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a infringement. They held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory that prepares them up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.