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Young talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar display to help the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Summary

Following a slow 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 second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, featuring a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Australian defense stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Substitutions in the second half injected immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who shot off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot high.

During the closing stages, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the danger.

Winning Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising area.

When a opposition player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third goal.

Final Drama

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

Tempers boiled over in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.