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

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia had a lot to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. This canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering several big hits to rattle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as their new captain scoring from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required an already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks but unable to score for 32 rucks. Following testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line and setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try by a flanker got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, summing up an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more energy in the second period, scoring through a forward to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a grubber, letting a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win that prepares them up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.