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With a daring strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Blows

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with two second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range punches yet failing to break through for 32 rucks. After probing the middle without success, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent score from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with renewed energy in the second period, registering through a forward to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for a historic victory over Australia.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory which prepares the squad well for their European fixtures.