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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to lead the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Summary

After a uneventful opening period controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos improved with the introduction of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made key stops, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to clear the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Australian defense stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Improvement

Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive run, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt.

Changes in the 57th minute injected instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who shot wide.

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

During the 70th minute, after a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the danger.

Winning Moment

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous area.

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

Late Action

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

Tempers flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

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

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.