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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced much on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky approach echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering several monster hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches yet unable to break through for 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing through before setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice due to questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At four points apart, the game was in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win which sets them well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.