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Young sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive game in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a superb display to lead the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 result over Canada.

Match Overview

After a uneventful opening period dominated by the hosts, 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.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made key saves, featuring a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the first half, the Australians struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Even with pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline stood strong, restricting opportunities before the break.

Post-Interval 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 missed his shot.

Substitutions in the second half brought instant impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

In the 70th minute, after a scramble in the box, the Australians cleared the situation.

Winning Goal

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

As a Canadian defender dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third strike.

Late Drama

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

Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo held firm to secure the win.

Next Steps

With already secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.