🔗 Share this article Nestory Irankunda Delivers Triumph for the Socceroos in Heated Exhibition Clash with Canada Promising sensation Nestory Irankunda found the back of the net for the second game in a row, as shot-stopper Paul Izzo put in a outstanding display to guide the Australian national team to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada. Match Overview After a dull opening period dominated by the hosts, the Australian side found their rhythm with the introduction of late substitutes Jordy Bos, Lewis Miller, and Patrick Yazbek. It was Irankunda who broke the deadlock in the 71st minute. Keeper Paul Izzo, starting ahead of skipper Maty Ryan, made multiple saves, featuring a world-class effort to stop Jacob Shaffelburg in the dying moments, ensuring Australia's seventh-straight win. NESTORY IRANKUNDA SCORES AUSTRALIA AHEAD IN MONTREAL! 🔥🇨🇦 0 - 1 🇦🇺 Notable Highlights In the early stages, Tajon Buchanan charged into the penalty area, but defender Alessandro Circati executed a perfectly timed challenge to clear the danger. Eight minutes later, Irankunda dribbled past two opponents and set up Max Balard, whose shot was blocked. During the first half, the Socceroos struggled to keep the ball, with Buchanan creating problems on the right flank. Even with dominance from the hosts, the organized Socceroos defense stood strong, limiting opportunities before the halftime. Post-Interval Turnaround Early into the second half, Irankunda went on a wonderful dribble, evading Derek Cornelius and driving the ball toward the near post, where Mohamed Toure scuffed his attempt. Changes in the 57th minute brought immediate impact, with Irankunda pouncing on a deflected pass and finding Toure, who fired wide. Later, Miller delivered a lovely cross to Yazbek, who flicked toward Circati, but the captain shot high. In the 70th minute, after a scramble in the defensive area, the Socceroos cleared the danger. Winning Moment Soon after, Connor Metcalfe sent Toure on the wing, and the striker cut the ball back into a promising zone. When a Canadian player hesitated, Irankunda sneaked in from the unmarked position to score his third international goal. Final Drama Despite failing to add a second goal, the Socceroos were saved by Izzo's late saves. Emotions boiled over in stoppage time, resulting in Irankunda receiving a booking and being substituted amid a fracas. During a spiteful conclusion, the Australian defense and Izzo stood their ground to secure the result. Looking Ahead Having already qualified for the next World Cup, the Australian squad are ramping up their preparation with friendlies against Canada and the USA, with a fixture scheduled in Colorado next.