🔗 Share this article

Young sensation Nestory Irankunda netted for the second fixture in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to guide the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a uneventful first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, including a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed tackle to avert the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from Canada, the organized Australian defense stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Changes in the second half brought instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

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

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

Decisive Moment

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

As a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third international goal.

Late Drama

Despite unable to add a another, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's last-minute saves.

Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a scuffle.

In a heated final few minutes, the Australian backline and Izzo held firm to secure the result.

Looking Ahead

Having already secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.