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Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second match in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to help the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Breakdown

Following a dull first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side improved with the arrival of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made several stops, featuring a world-class effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Socceroos backline stood strong, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

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

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

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

In the 70th minute, after a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Winning Moment

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising area.

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

Late Drama

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

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

During a spiteful conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.