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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. The shrewd yet risky approach echoed an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started strongly, including hooker a key forward delivering several big tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with short-range punches but unable to break through for 32 rucks. Following testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with a center slicing the line before assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of questionable calls, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match tight.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring through a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a kick, allowing a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the match was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece and a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets the squad well for the upcoming European fixtures.