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Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb display to guide the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Overview

Following a dull first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Australian side came to life with the introduction of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced key saves, featuring a spectacular intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Australian defense held firm, restricting opportunities before the halftime.

Post-Interval Shift

Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Substitutions in the 57th minute injected instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the situation.

Decisive Goal

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

When a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third international goal.

Final Drama

Despite unable to score a second goal, the team were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With now secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.