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With a daring move, Australia rested 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record versus Japan intact. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, Australia had much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players their chance, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test road trip. The canny though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, with two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already revamped side to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks but unable to break through over thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle without success, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a kick, letting a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory over Australia.

In the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory which sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.