Irankunda Earns Victory for the Socceroos in Intense Exhibition Match with the Canadian side
Emerging sensation Nestory Irankunda scored for the consecutive game in a row, while shot-stopper Paul Izzo delivered a outstanding performance to help the Socceroos to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Canada.
Fixture Overview
After a dull first half controlled by the hosts, the Socceroos found their rhythm with the entry of second-half replacements Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. Ultimately, Irankunda who scored the decider in the second half.
Keeper Paul Izzo, selected ahead of captain Maty Ryan, produced key stops, including a brilliant effort to deny Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight victory.
NESTOR IRANKUNDA PUTS US IN FRONT IN CANADA! π₯
π¨π¦ 0 - 1 π¦πΊ
Key Moments
- In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan burst into the penalty area, but captain Alessandro Circati made a perfectly timed challenge to avert the danger.
- Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and passed to Max Balard, whose attempt was deflected.
- During the first half, the Socceroos struggled to maintain possession, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank.
- Despite pressure from Canada, the organized Australian backline stood strong, limiting chances before the halftime.
Post-Interval Improvement
Early into the second period, Irankunda embarked on a wonderful dribble, beating Derek Cornelius and firing the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure missed his attempt.
Substitutions in the second half brought immediate energy, with Irankunda capitalizing on a deflected clearance and finding Toure, who shot wide.
Later, Miller delivered a precise cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the skipper blasted high.
During the closing stages, following a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleaned up the danger.
Decisive Goal
Moments later, Connor Metcalfe released Toure on the wing, and the forward cut 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.
Late Action
Despite failing to score a second goal, the team were rescued by Izzo's last-minute heroics.
Emotions flared in injury-time, leading to Irankunda receiving a yellow card and taken off amid a fracas.
In a heated conclusion, the Australian backline and Izzo held firm to seal the result.
Looking Ahead
With now qualified for the next global tournament, the Australian squad are intensifying their readiness with friendlies against North American opponents and the USA, with a fixture set in Colorado on Wednesday.
