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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line following a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced players their chance, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing several big hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

Australia pressed for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet failing to break through over 32 rucks. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide from a scrum, and a center slicing the line before setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. At 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory that sets the squad well for their European fixtures.