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Promising talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a outstanding display to guide the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Overview

Following a slow opening period controlled by the Canadian team, the Socceroos improved with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced several stops, including a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

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

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

Later, Miller delivered a precise ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.

In the 70th minute, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

When a opposition player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third strike.

Final Action

Although unable to score a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.