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Emerging prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the second game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a stellar performance to guide the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Overview

Following a uneventful first half dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos came to life with the entry of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key stops, featuring a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the first half, the Socceroos struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Changes in the second half injected immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar.

In the closing stages, following a scramble in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the situation.

Winning Goal

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the forward pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone.

When a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third strike.

Late Drama

Despite unable to score a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late saves.

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

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

Having now secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.