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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side started strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, as locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches yet failing to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following probing the middle without success, the team finally went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami breaking through and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score by Carlo Tizzano got denied on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with more energy in the second period, registering via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial scrum then a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a gritty win which prepares the squad up for the upcoming European fixtures.