The teenage star Delivers Win for Australia in Intense Friendly Clash with Canada

Young sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a stellar display to help the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.

Match Breakdown

After a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos improved with the arrival of second-half substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the 71st minute.

Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced multiple saves, featuring a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh-straight win.

NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥

🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺

Notable Highlights

• In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to avert the danger.
• Shortly later, Irankunda beat two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
• During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians found it difficult to keep possession, with Buchanan causing problems on the wing.
• Despite pressure from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos defense held firm, limiting opportunities before the break.

Post-Interval Improvement

Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.

Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate energy, with Irankunda pouncing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who shot off target.

Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who backheeled toward Circati, but the skipper shot over the bar.

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

Decisive Goal

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

When a Canadian player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the blind side to score his third goal.

Final Action

Despite failing to add a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late saves.

Tempers flared in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas.

During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.

Next Steps

Having already secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against Canada and the USA, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.