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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision 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 Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where their first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

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

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing multiple monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation forced the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to break through over 32 phases. Following probing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with more vigor in the second period, scoring through a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win against Australia.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a key scrum then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad well for the upcoming European tour.