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With a daring strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice XV will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-week tour. This canny yet risky move echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several big hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches yet failing to score over 32 phases. Following probing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and a center slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia responded quickly with Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.