🔗 Share this article Irankunda Secures Victory for Australia in Intense Friendly Clash with the Canadian side Young sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second fixture in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a stellar display to guide the Australian national team to a narrow 1-0 result over Canada. Fixture Summary After a dull opening period dominated by the hosts, the Australian side improved with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half. Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of captain Maty Ryan, made multiple saves, including a brilliant intervention to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive win. NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS AUSTRALIA IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Key Highlights During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a well-timed tackle to clear the threat. Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose shot was blocked. Throughout the opening 45 minutes, the Socceroos struggled to maintain the ball, with Buchanan creating issues on the wing. Even with dominance from Canada, the organized Socceroos defense stood strong, restricting opportunities before the break. Second Half Turnaround Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a impressive run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt. Changes in the 57th minute brought instant energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and setting up Toure, who shot wide. Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot over the bar. During the closing stages, following a scramble in the box, the Australians cleaned up the situation. Decisive Goal Soon after, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the right, and the striker cut the ball back into a dangerous zone. 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 team were saved by Izzo's late heroics. Tempers flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas. In a heated conclusion, the Socceroos backline and Izzo held firm to secure the result. Looking Ahead Having already secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a game set in Colorado next.