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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb display to lead the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Breakdown

Following a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Australian side improved with the introduction of late replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key stops, including a brilliant intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to keep the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Australian backline stood strong, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Improvement

Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute injected immediate energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

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

During the 70th minute, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleaned up the situation.

Winning Goal

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

When a opposition player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third strike.

Final Drama

Despite unable to score a another, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's last-minute saves.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Next Steps

With now secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.