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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's unblemished track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will strive to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky move echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began with intensity, including hooker a key forward landing multiple big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

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

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to score for 32 phases. After probing central channels without success, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker got denied on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a key scrum then a infringement. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win that prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.