Australia boss Tony Popovic stated he was “in awe” of Nestory Irankunda’s second-half strike after the Socceroos beat New Zealand 3-1 in Auckland.
Mohamed Toure scored twice for the guests in Auckland, with Irankunda additionally getting in on the act shortly after half-time. Whereas Chris Wooden was on track for New Zealand, they had been left to rue missed alternatives.
In retaining the Soccer Ashes, Popovic’s facet gathered simply 0.84 anticipated targets (xG) from 13 makes an attempt, in comparison with New Zealand’s 1.16 from eight photographs.
Australia stay unbeaten of their final 11 video games total, having confirmed their qualification for subsequent yr’s World Cup in that interval.
FT | Objectives from Mo Toure (35′, 60′) and Nestor Irankunda (54′) safe the #SoccerAshes for the CommBank #Socceroos! #NZLvAUS #ForeverGolden pic.twitter.com/1yHZniQYoh
— CommBank Socceroos (@Socceroos) September 9, 2025
“I feel confidence and positivity with the ball was key, and confidence beneath strain, as a result of they had been urgent us as they did within the earlier recreation,” Popovic stated.
Discussing Irankunda’s very good solo effort, the Australia boss stated: “I’m in awe of that strike. I noticed him do a few these in coaching.
“He’s a particular expertise, he has a particular shot, and we’ll speak about all the nice issues that he does with the ball, however what’s most pleasing for me is how arduous he labored.
“That will get ignored a good bit, however what I’ve seen this yr at Watford, the boy is maturing and understands that you must work for the staff and you must defend.”
Whereas New Zealand misplaced their third consecutive recreation, it was a memorable day for Luke Brooke-Smith, who made his debut.
“I’m joyful. I’m glad the boys trusted me with the ball. I received to get on the ball a few instances. I used to be advised to run at them and do my finest, and that’s what I did,” the 17-year-old winger stated.
“Clearly, we had been unlucky with the consequence, however it’s such an amazing feeling.
“I’m so grateful they belief me to get the minutes out on the pitch, and hopefully subsequent time it’s extra.”
