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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's top lineup will strive to replicate previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced much to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky move echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started strongly, including hooker a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already revamped Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks yet unable to score over 32 rucks. After probing central channels without success, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try by a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum then a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.