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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Summary

Following a uneventful opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the arrival of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple saves, including a spectacular intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the wing.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos defense stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Changes in the second half brought instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and finding Toure, who fired off target.

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

In the 70th minute, after a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Decisive Goal

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

When a opposition player hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third strike.

Late Action

Despite unable to score a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

In a heated conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

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