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With a daring strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps Australia's perfect record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had a lot on the line following a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era landing several big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall via short-range attacks but failing to break through over 32 phases. Following probing the middle without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center slicing the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to questionable calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with more vigor after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key scrum and a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad up for their European tour.