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With a daring move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named their least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory ends three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger players their chance, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via short-range attacks yet unable to break through over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center slicing through and setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

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

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with more energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through Tizzano scoring close in to restore a comfortable lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match was in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum and a infringement. They stood firm in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which sets them up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.