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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where their top XV will aim to replicate last year's thrilling win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had much on the line following a challenging home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-Test road trip. This canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as two second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required an already revamped side to adapt the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks yet unable to break through for thirty-two rucks. Following probing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win that sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.