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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top lineup will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much on the line following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped side to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch punches but failing to score for 32 rucks. Following probing central channels without success, they finally went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line and setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period for Australia. Wet weather, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to restore an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back when the fullback fumbled a kick, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. They held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which sets them up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.