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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the second fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a superb display to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Game Breakdown

After a dull first half dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced several stops, including a world-class intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Actions

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the first half, the Australians struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, restricting opportunities before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

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

Changes in the second half brought immediate energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar.

In the 70th minute, after a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous area.

When a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to score his third international goal.

Late Drama

Despite failing to add a second goal, the team were saved by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking 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

With now qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with warm-up matches against North American opponents and the United States, with a game set in Colorado next.