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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow win ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose following a challenging home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. This canny yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side started with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and improved, with their new captain crossing from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, with locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced an already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches but failing to score for 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and a center breaking through and setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan started with renewed energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing a winger to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets them up for their European fixtures.