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Young talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive game in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding display to lead the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Summary

After a dull opening period controlled 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 scored the decider in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, including a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Despite pressure from the hosts, the organized Australian backline stood strong, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked 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 immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who shot off target.

Soon after, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted over the bar.

During the closing stages, after a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Winning Moment

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

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

Late Action

Although unable to add a second goal, the team were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

Having now secured a spot for the upcoming global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.