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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the second game in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb display to help the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Summary

After a dull opening period controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, featuring a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed tackle to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• Throughout the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Socceroos backline held firm, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Improvement

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

Substitutions in the second half injected immediate energy, 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 captain blasted over the bar.

During the 70th minute, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Winning Goal

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker pulled the ball back into a promising zone.

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

Late Drama

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

Emotions boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a heated final few minutes, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

Having now qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.