Australia produced one of the early upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Turkey 2-0 in their Group D opener in Vancouver despite spending long periods of the match without possession.
Key Highlights:
The Socceroos capitalised on their chances through goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe to secure all three points against a Turkish side making its first World Cup appearance in 24 years.
Turkey dominated possession throughout the encounter, controlling nearly 78 percent of the ball and creating several opportunities, with Arda Güler at the heart of their attacking play.
However, Australia’s disciplined defensive structure and clinical finishing proved decisive.
Irankunda broke the deadlock in the 27th minute after latching onto a pass from Paul Okon-Engstler before cutting inside and calmly finishing past Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır.
Turkey continued to press for an equaliser after the break but were repeatedly denied by Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach and a resolute backline.
Metcalfe then wrapped up the victory in the 75th minute with a long-range strike that bounced beyond Çakır.
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The result moves Australia level on points with the United States in Group D after the Americans recorded a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay.
Speaking after the match, Irankunda said criticism directed at Australia before the tournament motivated the team.
“It was extra motivation. People underestimate us a lot, but we showed today that we can play football. They had more possession, but we scored the goals and got the result,” he said.
Australia coach Tony Popovic praised his players for executing the game plan effectively.
“I’m proud of the players and the staff. The preparation was excellent, and the players delivered exactly what was required. They were outstanding,” Popovic said.
Turkey manager Vincenzo Montella expressed disappointment with the result but remained hopeful of a turnaround.
“We are extremely saddened. We controlled possession and created chances, but we lacked precision in front of goal. There is still time to recover in the group stage,” Montella stated.
Australia will face the United States on June 19 in a match that could determine the Group D leaders, while Turkey take on Paraguay in a must-win encounter as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
