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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive match in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a stellar display to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Breakdown

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

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, featuring a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• Throughout the first half, the Socceroos struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline held firm, restricting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Shift

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

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

Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

In the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Goal

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a dangerous area.

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

Late Drama

Although failing to add a another, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late saves.

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

In a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result.

Next Steps

Having already secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.