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Emerging prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the second game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to lead the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Fixture Overview

After a slow first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos improved with the entry of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced several saves, featuring a spectacular intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Post-Interval Turnaround

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Changes in the second half brought instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Goal

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

When a Canadian defender hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Final Action

Although unable to add a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

During a heated final few minutes, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado next.