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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the second fixture in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar display to lead the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a uneventful opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos came to life with the entry 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, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, including a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite dominance from Canada, the disciplined Australian backline held firm, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Improvement

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

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

In the closing stages, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleaned up the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

When a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third strike.

Late Action

Although unable to add a another, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late saves.

Tempers boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Next Steps

Having already secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.