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Promising sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a stellar performance to lead the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a dull opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, including a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, limiting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Improvement

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Substitutions in the second half injected immediate energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

During the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the defensive area, 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 zone.

When a opposition defender dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third goal.

Final Drama

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

Tempers flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With already secured a spot for the upcoming World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.