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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, in which the squad's top lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced players their chance, concerned about fatigue over a grueling five-Test tour. The canny though daring move mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward landing multiple monster tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as locks second-rowers forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches but unable to score for 32 rucks. Following probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try from a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's ferocious defense kept the match close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key scrum and a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory that sets them up for their European tour.