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Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the second match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a superb performance to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Overview

After a slow opening period 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 made the difference in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key saves, including a spectacular intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to clear 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 keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Despite pressure from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Turnaround

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

Substitutions in the second half injected immediate energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted over the bar.

During the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone.

When a Canadian defender hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third international goal.

Late Action

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

Tempers boiled over in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a fracas.

During a heated final few minutes, the Socceroos defense and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With now secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.