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Young talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding performance to help the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Summary

Following a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the arrival of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key stops, featuring a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the first half, the Australians struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the 70th minute, after a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Goal

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the forward cut the ball back into a dangerous zone.

When a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Late Drama

Although failing to score a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late saves.

Tempers flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

During a heated final few minutes, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

With now secured a spot for the upcoming World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against Canada and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.