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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their top lineup will strive to repeat previous thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia had much to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet failing to break through over thirty-two phases. Following testing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking the line and setting up a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the match close.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. Australia hit back quickly through Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which prepares the squad up for the upcoming European tour.