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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much on the line following a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. This canny yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering several monster hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck early, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range punches yet unable to score over thirty-two rucks. After testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and a center breaking through before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions because of dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. Australia hit back quickly through the flanker scoring close in to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

During the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.