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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, in which the squad's top XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, with hooker a key forward landing several big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches yet unable to break through for thirty-two phases. Following probing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent try from a flanker got denied on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded quickly with the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory that prepares the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.