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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as 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

This narrow victory ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd though daring move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing several big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already revamped side to adjust the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with one-inch attacks yet unable to break through over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking through and setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent score by a flanker was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia hit back quickly through the flanker powering over close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win which prepares them up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.