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With a daring strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match slide and keeps Australia's perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will strive to replicate previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced much to lose following a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-week road trip. The canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This required an already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch attacks yet failing to score for 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring through a forward to narrow the gap to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum then a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win that prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.