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With a daring strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia faced a lot to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger stars an opportunity, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test road trip. This shrewd though daring move echoed an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several big hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced an already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet unable to break through for 32 phases. After testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami breaking through and setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent score from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key scrum then a infringement. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which prepares the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.