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Young prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the second match in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a superb display to lead the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Fixture Summary

After a dull first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the introduction of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, featuring a brilliant intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the wing.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Australian defense stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break.

Second Half Improvement

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

Changes in the 57th minute brought instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

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

In the 70th minute, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Winning Moment

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

When a opposition defender dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third strike.

Late Drama

Although failing to add a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

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

During a heated final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

With already secured a spot for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.