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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan team by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's top lineup will aim to replicate previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players their chance, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week road trip. The canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing several monster hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck early, as two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks but failing to score for 32 phases. Following testing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker was denied twice because of dubious calls, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, registering via a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece and a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory that prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.