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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive fixture in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Breakdown

Following a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side came to life with the entry of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, featuring a world-class effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda went on a wonderful dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller sent in a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted over the bar.

During the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the situation.

Decisive Moment

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

When a opposition defender dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third international strike.

Late Drama

Although unable to score a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

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

In a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result.

Next Steps

Having already qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their readiness with warm-up matches against Canada and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.