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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the second game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to help the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Overview

Following a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the introduction of late substitutes 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, produced key stops, including a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Socceroos defense stood strong, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who shot off target.

Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

During the closing stages, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the danger.

Decisive Moment

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the forward pulled the ball back into a dangerous area.

When a opposition player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Final Drama

Despite unable to add a another, the team were saved by Izzo's last-minute saves.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos defense and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Next Steps

With already qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.