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Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a stellar display to help the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Overview

Following a uneventful opening period controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side improved with the arrival of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made key saves, featuring a brilliant effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Moments

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• During the first half, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Despite pressure from the hosts, the organized Australian backline stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break.

Second Half Turnaround

Early into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his shot.

Substitutions in the second half brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Soon after, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain blasted high.

During the closing stages, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the situation.

Winning Moment

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

When a Canadian player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third international goal.

Final Drama

Although unable to add a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.

Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas.

In a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos defense and Izzo held firm to seal the win.

Next Steps

With already qualified for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado on Wednesday.