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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive match in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb display to lead the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Overview

After a slow opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the arrival of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made several stops, featuring a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller delivered a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

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

Winning Goal

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

As a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third international strike.

Final Action

Although unable to add a another, the team were rescued by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Tempers boiled over in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

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

Looking Ahead

With now secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.