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Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar display to guide the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Overview

Following a uneventful first half dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, produced several saves, including a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian defense stood strong, restricting chances before the halftime.

Post-Interval Shift

Early into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.

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

Decisive Moment

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the forward pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone.

When a Canadian defender dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third goal.

Late Drama

Despite failing to score a second goal, the team were rescued by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos defense and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their readiness with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.