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Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to lead the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Fixture Summary

Following a uneventful opening period dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the arrival of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, made key stops, including a brilliant effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the wing.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the disciplined Australian defense stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Improvement

Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

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

During the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Winning Goal

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

When a Canadian defender dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third goal.

Final Action

Although unable to score a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas.

In a heated final few minutes, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Next Steps

With already secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their readiness with warm-up matches against Canada and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.