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Young talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Summary

Following a uneventful opening period controlled by the hosts, 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 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline held firm, limiting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Changes in the second half injected immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

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

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the right, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising zone.

As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to tap in his third international goal.

Late Action

Despite unable to add a another, the team were saved by Izzo's late saves.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

In a spiteful final few minutes, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.