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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where their top lineup will strive to replicate previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced much on the line following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger players their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny though daring approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering several monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks yet unable to break through for 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further apparent score from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense ensured the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic victory over the Wallabies.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad up for the upcoming European fixtures.