🔗 Share this article

Promising talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a stellar performance to lead the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Summary

After a uneventful opening period dominated by the hosts, the Australian side improved with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made key saves, featuring a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• Throughout the first half, the Australians struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the wing.
• Even with dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Socceroos defense stood strong, restricting chances before the halftime.

Second Half Turnaround

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

Substitutions in the second half injected instant energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and finding Toure, who fired wide.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

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

Decisive Goal

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

When a Canadian player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the blind side to tap in his third goal.

Final Drama

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

Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas.

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

Looking Ahead

Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a game set in Colorado on Wednesday.