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With a daring strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already reshuffled side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches but unable to break through over 32 phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing through before assisting a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies responded soon after with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory over Australia.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory that sets the squad up for their European fixtures.