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Promising sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the second match in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to help the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Overview

After a dull opening period controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side improved with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced several stops, including a brilliant effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

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Notable Actions

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Socceroos backline stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Shift

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

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

Winning Moment

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

As a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third strike.

Late Action

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

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado next.