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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second fixture in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a outstanding performance to lead the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Overview

After a slow first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side came to life with the introduction of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a spectacular intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline stood strong, restricting chances before the halftime.

Post-Interval Turnaround

Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, 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 ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

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

Late Drama

Despite unable to add a another, the team were saved by Izzo's late saves.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.