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Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a superb display to lead the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Breakdown

After a slow first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos came to life with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a spectacular intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the organized Australian backline held firm, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

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

Substitutions in the second half brought immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

During the closing stages, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

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

Final Action

Despite failing to add a another, the team were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

Tempers flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.