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Promising sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding performance to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Breakdown

After a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos came to life with the arrival of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced key saves, featuring a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep the ball, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline stood strong, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving 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 deflected pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a lovely cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the closing stages, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Goal

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

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

Final Action

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

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Next Steps

Having now qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.