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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the second game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Summary

Following a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Australian defense stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break.

Post-Interval Improvement

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive run, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

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

During the closing stages, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Goal

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

As a opposition defender dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to tap in his third goal.

Final Drama

Despite failing to add a second goal, the team were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

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

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

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.