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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny though daring move mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense with short-range punches but unable to break through over thirty-two rucks. Following testing central channels without success, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with more vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a gritty victory that prepares the squad well for their European fixtures.