Nestory Irankunda
SCP
Left Winger
Wide Forward
Feb 9, 2006 (20)
Right
5'9"
163 lb
Provides assist in first European start
Irankunda assisted once to go with one shot (zero on goal), four crosses (two accurate) and one corner in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Lens.
Analysis: Irankunda made his first Champions League start of the season after remaining on the bench against Galatasaray, supplying the cross for Luis Suarez's opening goal. The winger also registered four crosses, including two accurate deliveries, and one off-target shot across 73 minutes, nearly doubling Sporting's lead before halftime. His productive display on the flank could strengthen his case for further starts in European competition.
Limited impact in PK loss
Irankunda generated two shots (zero on goal) and two chances created in Friday's 1-1 (5-3) penalty shootout loss to Egypt.
Analysis: Irankunda grabbed headlines after scoring one of the goals in the win over Turkiye in the World Cup opener, but his impact was limited the rest of the way. He couldn't do much against Egypt's defensive line, and the Watford striker finished the 2026 World Cup with one goal, six shots (two on target) and three chances created.
Lively but lacked cutting edge
Irankunda had two shots (zero on goal) in Thursday's 0-0 draw against Paraguay.
Analysis: Irankunda came back into the starting eleven up front after being surprisingly left out of the last game and was combative throughout, winning five of his eight duels. He was a danger when space appeared and got two shots off during the game, one from a tight angle where he could have looked for a better option, and one from range as he tried to make his mark on the match.
Nets opener on Sunday
Irankunda scored one goal to go with two shots (two on goal) in Sunday's 2-0 win versus Turkey.
Analysis: Irankunda controlled Paul Okon's pass and scored with a great finish in the 27th minute. Irankunda was also vital to Australia's defensive structure, recording two clearances. For his performance, Irankunda won the Superior Player of the Match award. He comes off a championship season where he made 40 appearances, scoring four goals and providing four assists.
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