The Canadian men’s national team 's journey toward the upper echelons of international soccer has not had many hiccups, but their momentum took a blow in a 1–0 loss to Australia on Friday evening at CF Montréal ’s Stade Saputo.

The defeat marked their first within 90 minutes since they fell to Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals last March. Australia, No. 25 in the FIFA rankings, became the lowest-ranked team Canada have lost to in regulation since Jesse Marsch took over as head coach.

Canada mustered 17 shots but couldn't beat Australian goalkeeper Paul Izzo, who delivered an outstanding performance.

The Socceroos' lone goal came in the 71st minute via quick reactions from Nestory Irankunda, who capitalized on a loose touch in the box by Niko Sigur.

Learning oppor

See Full Page