Nestory Irankunda Delivers Win for Australia in Heated Exhibition Clash with Canada
Young talent Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the consecutive game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a stellar performance to lead the Socceroos to a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada.
Match Summary
After a slow opening period dominated by the Canadian team, the Australian side found their rhythm with the introduction of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who made the difference in the second half.
Keeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, made several saves, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh consecutive victory.
NESTORY IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN MONTREAL! 🔥
🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺
Key Highlights
- During the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
- Eight minutes later, Irankunda beat two defenders and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
- During the first half, the Australians struggled to keep the ball, with Buchanan causing issues on the right flank.
- Despite pressure from Canada, the disciplined Socceroos defense held firm, restricting opportunities before the break.
Post-Interval Improvement
Two minutes into the second period, Irankunda went on a impressive dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his shot.
Substitutions in the second half injected immediate energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and finding Toure, who shot off target.
Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper shot high.
During the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the situation.
Decisive Moment
Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the forward pulled the ball back into a promising area.
When a opposition player hesitated, Irankunda slid in from the unmarked position to score his third international strike.
Final Action
Although unable to score a second goal, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.
Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a booking and taken off amid a scuffle.
In a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to seal the win.
Next Steps
With already secured a spot for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their readiness with friendlies against Canada and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.
