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In a bold strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players their chance, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan started with intensity, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering several monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their pack and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch punches but failing to break through over thirty-two rucks. Following probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score four points apart, the match was in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win that prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.