🔗 Share this article

Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the second game in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb display to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Game Summary

After a uneventful 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. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced several saves, including a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected.
• Throughout the first half, the Socceroos struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, restricting chances before the break.

Post-Interval Improvement

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

Changes in the second half injected instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

Later, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot high.

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Winning Goal

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

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

Late Action

Despite unable to score a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

During a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo held firm to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the next World Cup, the Socceroos are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.