Nestory Irankunda Secures Win for the Socceroos in Fiery Friendly Encounter with the Canadian side
Young talent Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, while goalkeeper Paul Izzo produced a superb performance to guide the Socceroos to a tight 1-0 win over Canada.
Fixture Overview
Following a uneventful first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos improved with the arrival of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the 71st minute.
Goalkeeper Paul Izzo, selected in place of captain Maty Ryan, made multiple saves, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, securing Australia's seventh consecutive victory.
NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES US IN FRONT IN CANADA! 🔥
🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺
Notable Actions
- In the third minute, Tajon Buchanan charged into the box, but defender Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
- Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two defenders and set up Max Balard, whose attempt was blocked.
- During the opening 45 minutes, the Australians struggled to keep possession, with Buchanan creating issues on the right flank.
- Despite dominance from the hosts, the disciplined Socceroos defense held firm, restricting chances before the halftime.
Second Half Turnaround
Early into the second period, Irankunda went on a wonderful run, beating Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the goal, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.
Substitutions in the 57th minute brought instant impact, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected pass and finding Toure, who fired wide.
Soon after, Miller sent in a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot high.
In the 70th minute, following a pinball situation in the box, the Socceroos cleaned up the situation.
Decisive Moment
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 blind side to score his third strike.
Final Drama
Although failing to add a another, the Socceroos were rescued by Izzo's late heroics.
Tempers boiled over in stoppage time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and being substituted amid a fracas.
During a spiteful final few minutes, the Socceroos backline and Izzo stood their ground to secure the win.
Looking Ahead
Having already secured a spot for the next global tournament, the Socceroos are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against North American opponents and the United States, with a fixture set in Colorado next.