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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends three-match slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which their top XV will strive to repeat previous dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. The canny though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries struck in the opening period, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks but unable to break through over 32 rucks. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide from a scrum, with a center slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after with the flanker scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.