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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players their chance, concerned about tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on the Japanese line, hammering the defense with short-range punches yet unable to break through for thirty-two rucks. After probing central channels without success, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and a center slicing through and setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, summing up a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team came out with renewed energy after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia hit back soon after through the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which prepares the squad well for the upcoming European tour.