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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the second fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb display to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the arrival 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 key stops, featuring a brilliant intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from Canada, the organized Australian defense held firm, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

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

Changes in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

During the 70th minute, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Goal

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising area.

As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Final Action

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

Emotions flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

In a heated conclusion, the Australian 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 warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.