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Promising sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second match in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar display to guide the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada.

Game Summary

After a uneventful opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, made key stops, featuring a spectacular effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to avert the threat.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Shift

Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Changes in the second half brought immediate energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller sent in a lovely ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

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

Winning Goal

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising zone.

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

Late Drama

Although failing to add a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a scuffle.

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

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.