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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory ends three-match slide and maintains Australia's perfect track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where their top lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much to lose following a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering several monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as locks second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled side to adapt the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks but failing to score over 32 rucks. After probing central channels without success, the team finally went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through and assisting a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker was denied on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

Japan came out with renewed energy after halftime, scoring via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after through the flanker scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win which sets them well for their European tour.