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Promising talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the second match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a outstanding performance to help the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Overview

After a uneventful first half controlled by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced key saves, featuring a world-class effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN CANADA! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
• Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos backline held firm, limiting opportunities before the break.

Post-Interval Shift

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive 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 pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target.

Later, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.

In the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the situation.

Decisive Moment

Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a dangerous zone.

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

Late Action

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

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

In a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win.

Next Steps

With now secured a spot for the upcoming World Cup, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against Canada and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.