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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive fixture in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding performance to lead the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Summary

After a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Socceroos came to life with the introduction of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key saves, including a brilliant intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Australian backline held firm, restricting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Improvement

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

Changes in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the box, the Australians cleared the danger.

Winning Moment

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

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

Late Action

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

Emotions flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas.

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

Looking Ahead

Having already secured a spot for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.