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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive match in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to guide the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Overview

After a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made key stops, featuring a brilliant effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the break.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Changes in the second half brought instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

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

Decisive Moment

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

As a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third international strike.

Late Drama

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

Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a scuffle.

In a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

Having already secured a spot 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 next.