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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for an early advantage.

Injuries struck early, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced the already revamped Wallabies to adjust their pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defense via short-range attacks yet failing to break through over 32 rucks. Following probing central channels without success, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent score from a flanker got denied twice due to questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with more vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to close the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to score. At four points apart, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win against Australia.

During the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets the squad up for their European tour.