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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the second fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding performance to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Overview

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

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made several stops, including a world-class intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Changes in the second half brought immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.

During the 70th minute, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Goal

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

When a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third international goal.

Late Drama

Although failing to score a another, the team were saved by Izzo's late heroics.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

In a heated conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With already secured a spot for the upcoming World Cup, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with warm-up matches against Canada and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.