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Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the second fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a stellar display to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Breakdown

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

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, produced several stops, featuring a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan creating problems on the wing.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Australian defense stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break.

Second Half Shift

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

During the closing stages, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the forward cut the ball back into a promising area.

As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third strike.

Final Action

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

Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

In a heated conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

With already qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.