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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will aim to replicate previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much on the line following a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger stars an opportunity, concerned about fatigue over a demanding five-Test tour. This canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

The home side began strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era landing several big tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain crossing from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches but unable to score for 32 phases. After testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential try by a flanker was disallowed twice due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with more energy after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

During the dying stages, Australia dug deep, winning a key set-piece then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win which prepares them up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.