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Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding performance to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Breakdown

After a slow 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. It was Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple saves, including a spectacular effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Despite pressure from the hosts, the organized Australian defense stood strong, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Turnaround

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

Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who shot off target.

Later, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

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

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a promising area.

As a Canadian defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third international strike.

Late Drama

Despite unable to add a another, the team were rescued by Izzo's last-minute saves.

Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

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

Next Steps

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