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Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive fixture in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada.

Fixture Overview

Following a slow first half controlled by the hosts, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, including a spectacular effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Actions

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• During the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Improvement

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

Substitutions in the 57th minute brought instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide.

Later, Miller sent in a lovely ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

During the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Decisive Moment

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

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

Late Action

Despite failing to add a another, the team were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda getting a yellow card and being substituted amid a scuffle.

During a heated conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to seal the result.

Looking Ahead

With now secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a game set in Colorado next.