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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive match in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a stellar display to lead the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Overview

After a slow opening period controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos improved with the entry of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key saves, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos defense stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break.

Post-Interval Turnaround

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

Changes in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Later, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot high.

In the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the box, the Australians cleared the danger.

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous area.

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

Late Drama

Although failing to score a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late saves.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Next Steps

Having now secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado next.