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With a daring strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had much on the line after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week tour. This canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering several big hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Injuries struck early, with two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defense via one-inch punches but unable to score for thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels ineffectively, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for a historic victory over Australia.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key set-piece then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.