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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their top XV will aim to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger players their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. This canny though daring move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era landing several big tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range attacks but unable to score over thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle without success, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan started with more energy in the second period, registering through a forward to close the deficit to six points. Australia hit back quickly through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory which prepares the squad well for their European fixtures.