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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a dull opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the arrival of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made several saves, featuring a brilliant effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos backline held firm, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Improvement

Early into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who shot wide.

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

During the closing stages, following a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Winning Goal

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the forward cut the ball back into a dangerous zone.

As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third international goal.

Final Drama

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

Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a scuffle.

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

Next Steps

Having already qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.