🔗 Share this article Nestory Irankunda Earns Triumph for the Socceroos in Heated Friendly Encounter with the Canadian side Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive match in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to guide the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada. Fixture Breakdown Following a dull opening period dominated by the hosts, the Australian side found their rhythm with the entry of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute. Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of captain Maty Ryan, produced multiple stops, featuring a brilliant intervention to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight victory. NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Notable Highlights During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the threat. Shortly later, Irankunda dribbled past multiple defenders and set up Max Balard, whose shot was deflected. During the first half, the Socceroos found it difficult to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank. Despite pressure from Canada, the disciplined Australian defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the break. Second Half Turnaround Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, evading Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt. Changes in the second half injected instant impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who fired off target. Later, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar. During the 70th minute, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Australians cleaned up the situation. Decisive Goal Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the right, and the striker pulled the ball back into a promising area. As a opposition player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third strike. Final Action Although unable to add a second goal, the team were saved by Izzo's late saves. Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas. In a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result. Next Steps Having now secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.