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Promising talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a superb performance to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Breakdown

After a dull first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Australian side improved with the arrival of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a spectacular intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the threat.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Even with pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Shift

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

Substitutions in the second half injected instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and finding Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the captain shot high.

During the closing stages, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.

Decisive Moment

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

As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to tap in his third international strike.

Late Drama

Although failing to score a another, the team were saved by Izzo's last-minute heroics.

Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win.

Next Steps

Having already qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.