🔗 Share this article Nestory Irankunda Delivers Triumph for Australia in Intense Exhibition Clash with the Canadian side Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the second match in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo put in a superb display to help the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 win over Canada. Match Summary Following a dull first half dominated by the Canadian team, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the arrival of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half. Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, produced several stops, featuring a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the 90th minute, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory. NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Key Actions In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a well-timed challenge to clear the threat. Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was deflected. Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank. Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, restricting opportunities before the break. Second Half Turnaround Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt. Changes in the second half brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and finding Toure, who shot wide. Soon after, Miller sent in a precise ball to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot high. During the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Australians cleared the situation. Winning Moment Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the forward pulled the ball back into a dangerous area. When a opposition player dithered, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third strike. Final Action Although failing to score a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late saves. Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda getting a booking and being substituted amid a fracas. In a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to seal the win. Next Steps Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are intensifying their preparation with warm-up matches against Canada and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.