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In a bold strategy, Australia rested 13 key players and appointed their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match slide and keeps Australia's perfect track record versus Japan intact. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will strive to repeat previous thrilling win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about fatigue during a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on the Japanese try-line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks yet unable to break through over 32 rucks. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and a center breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of dubious calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense kept the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to close the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key set-piece and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which prepares the squad up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.