🔗 Share this article Irankunda Delivers Triumph for the Socceroos in Heated Exhibition Clash with Canada Promising prodigy Nestory Irankunda netted for the consecutive fixture in a row, as goalkeeper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to guide the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada. Fixture Summary Following a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half. Keeper Paul Izzo, starting in place of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple stops, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive win. NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Key Highlights During the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but captain Alessandro Circati executed a well-timed challenge to clear the threat. Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat multiple opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked. During the first half, the Australians struggled to keep the ball, with Buchanan causing problems on the right flank. Even with dominance from Canada, the disciplined Australian backline stood strong, limiting opportunities before the break. Post-Interval Turnaround Two minutes into the second half, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt. Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who shot wide. Soon after, Miller sent in a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar. During the closing stages, after a pinball situation in the defensive area, the Australians cleaned up the danger. Winning Goal Moments later, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the right, and the forward pulled the ball back into a promising zone. As a Canadian player dithered, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to tap in his third international strike. Late Drama Although failing to score a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's last-minute saves. Emotions flared in injury-time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a scuffle. During a heated conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win. Looking Ahead Having now qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a game scheduled in Colorado next.