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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much on the line after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test road trip. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering several big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, with two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defense via short-range punches yet failing to score for thirty-two rucks. Following testing the middle without success, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with a center breaking the line before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score from a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

During the dying minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets the squad up for the upcoming European tour.