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Young talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive match in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding display to lead the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a slow first half dominated by the hosts, the Socceroos improved with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a spectacular effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Highlights

• In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
• Despite pressure from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense held firm, limiting chances before the break.

Second Half Turnaround

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

Substitutions in the second half brought instant impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.

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

Winning Moment

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

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

Late Drama

Despite failing to score a second goal, the team were rescued by Izzo's late saves.

Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a yellow card and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Looking Ahead

With now qualified for the upcoming global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.