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With a daring move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan squad 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts three-match slide and keeps Australia's perfect track record versus Japan intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. The canny yet risky move echoed a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including hooker Hayate Era landing several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's pack and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch attacks but unable to score for 32 phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score by a flanker got denied on two occasions due to questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly through Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, as Japan pushing for their first-ever win against Australia.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum then a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory which prepares the squad well for their European tour.