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Promising talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the second game in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding performance to guide the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Overview

After a dull opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos came to life with the entry of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made key saves, including a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Socceroos defense stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

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

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

Soon after, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar.

In the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the box, the Australians cleared the situation.

Winning Goal

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

When a Canadian defender dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third goal.

Final Action

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

Emotions boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.