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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger stars their chance, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. This canny though daring move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense with short-range punches yet unable to score over 32 phases. Following probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking through before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent score by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win that sets the squad up for the upcoming European tour.