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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the second match in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb performance to lead the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Summary

After a uneventful first half dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos came to life with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, including a spectacular effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Australian backline held firm, restricting opportunities before the break.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

During the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

As a Canadian player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Late Action

Although unable to add a another, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas.

In a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos defense and Izzo stood their ground to seal the result.

Next Steps

Having now qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.