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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb display to help the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a dull opening period controlled by the hosts, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, featuring a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with dominance from the hosts, the organized Australian backline held firm, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute brought instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

In the closing stages, after a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Goal

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the right, and the forward pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone.

As a opposition defender dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third international goal.

Late Drama

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

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

In a heated conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado on Wednesday.