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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced much on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. This canny though daring move echoed an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several big hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain crossing from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This required the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly near their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks but failing to score over thirty-two rucks. After testing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing the line before setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets them well for their European tour.