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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends three-match slide and maintains Australia's perfect track record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their top lineup will aim to replicate previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had much on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-Test road trip. This shrewd yet risky move echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing several monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks yet failing to break through for 32 phases. Following probing the middle without success, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent score by Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan started with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback dropped a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At 19-15, the match was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win over Australia.

During the final minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. They held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win that sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.