Socceroos Irankunda Scores Stunning Free Kick in Watford Draw with Swansea

Nestory Irankunda, the 19-year-old Socceroos winger recently signed by Watford from Bayern Munich, scored his first goal for the club with a spectacular 25-yard curling free kick against Swansea, giving Watford a 1-0 lead in their Championship match. Irankunda earned the opportunity to take the free kick after usual specialist Imran Louza was sidelined, and he confidently convinced captain Moussa Sissoko to let him take it. Despite his early impact and strong performance, Irankunda was substituted in the second half due to a hamstring injury, though manager Paulo Pezzolano confirmed he was "OK." Swansea's substitute Zan Vipotnik scored an equalizer in the 82nd minute, rescuing a point for the home side and resulting in a 1-1 draw. Watford dominated much of the match but could not maintain their lead after Irankunda's departure, with Swansea increasing pressure late in the game. Irankunda expressed mixed feelings about the result, proud of his goal but disappointed they could not secure a win.