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Young talent Nestory Irankunda netted for the second fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to lead the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Summary

Following a uneventful first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos came to life with the arrival of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.

Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple saves, featuring a world-class intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.

NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Key Moments

• During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked.
• Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Despite dominance from the hosts, the organized Socceroos backline stood strong, restricting chances before the break.

Second Half Improvement

Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.

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

Later, Miller delivered a lovely ball to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

In the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the danger.

Decisive Goal

Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a promising zone.

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

Late Action

Although failing to score a another, the team were rescued by Izzo's late saves.

Emotions boiled over in injury-time, leading to Irankunda getting a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.

During a spiteful conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

Having already qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado on Wednesday.