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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 defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's unblemished track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top XV will aim to replicate previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. This canny though daring move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, with two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via short-range punches yet failing to break through for thirty-two phases. After testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the contest close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a infringement. They held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought win that prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.