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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive fixture in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding performance to guide the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Summary

After a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side 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.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, made several stops, including a brilliant intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the wing.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline stood strong, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Improvement

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

Substitutions in the 57th minute brought instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who shot wide.

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

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

Winning Goal

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

As a opposition player hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third strike.

Final Action

Although unable to add a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute saves.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Looking Ahead

With already qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado on Wednesday.