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Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a outstanding display to guide the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Breakdown

After a uneventful first half dominated by the hosts, the Australian side came to life with the arrival of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced key stops, featuring a spectacular effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to clear the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• Throughout the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Australian defense stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Post-Interval Improvement

Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Soon after, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot high.

During the closing stages, after a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone.

As a opposition player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third goal.

Final Action

Although unable to add a second goal, the team were saved by Izzo's late heroics.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

With already qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado next.