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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where their first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-Test tour. This canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through for thirty-two phases. After probing the middle without success, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent score from a flanker got denied on two occasions due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, securing a crucial set-piece and a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.