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Emerging prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Overview

After a uneventful opening period controlled by the hosts, the Australian side found their rhythm with the arrival of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

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

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed tackle to clear the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos backline stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

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

Changes in the second half brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

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

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

When a Canadian defender hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to tap in his third international goal.

Final Action

Although failing to add a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions flared in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Next Steps

Having now qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.