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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will aim to replicate previous dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had much to lose after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a demanding five-week tour. The canny yet risky move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, including front-rower a key forward landing multiple monster hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation forced the already reshuffled side to adjust their pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks yet failing to score for thirty-two phases. Following probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing through before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential score by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of questionable calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the final stages, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.