🔗 Share this article Irankunda Delivers Win for the Socceroos in Heated Exhibition Match with the Canadian side Emerging talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the second fixture in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a stellar display to guide the Australian national team to a tight 1-0 victory over Canada. Game Summary After a uneventful first half controlled by the hosts, the Australian side came to life with the arrival of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who scored the decider in the 71st minute. Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of skipper Maty Ryan, produced key stops, including a spectacular intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win. NESTOR IRANKUNDA SCORES US AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Notable Actions During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the threat. Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked. Throughout the first half, the Socceroos struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing. Even with dominance from Canada, the organized Australian backline held firm, restricting opportunities before the halftime. Second Half Improvement Early into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt. Changes in the second half brought immediate energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a poor pass and setting up Toure, who fired off target. Soon after, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot high. During the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the box, the Australians cleaned up the danger. Winning Moment Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the striker pulled the ball back into a dangerous zone. As a opposition defender hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third strike. Late Action Despite failing to add a another, the team were saved by Izzo's last-minute saves. Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas. During a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result. Looking Ahead Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with warm-up matches against Canada and the United States, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.