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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan squad 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will aim to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced a lot on the line following a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-week tour. This canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation forced the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with one-inch attacks yet failing to score for 32 rucks. Following probing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and a center slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another potential try by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling kept the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with more energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for a historic win against Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a infringement. They held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win that sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.