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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will strive to replicate last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much to lose after a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger players their chance, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. This canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward landing several monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with their new captain crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required the already reshuffled side to adjust their pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks yet failing to break through for 32 phases. After probing the middle without success, they finally went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad up for their European fixtures.