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With a daring move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. The canny though daring approach echoed an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era landing several monster tackles to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck early, with two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via short-range punches yet failing to break through for 32 phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent try by a flanker was denied twice due to questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense ensured the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano powering over close in to restore an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, allowing a winger to cross. At four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for a historic victory against Australia.

During the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets the squad up for their European tour.