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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had much to lose following a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. The canny though daring approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering several monster tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, with two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required an already revamped side to adjust their pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via short-range punches yet unable to score over thirty-two phases. Following testing the middle ineffectively, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic win over Australia.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial set-piece then a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory that sets them well for the upcoming European tour.