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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia had much to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger players their chance, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era landing several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck early, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via short-range attacks yet failing to score over 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, Australia showed character, winning a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win that sets the squad up for the upcoming European tour.