VANCOUVER, CANADA June 13, 2026 – Australia delivered a masterclass in defensive resilience and clinical counter-attacking to defeat a star-studded Turkey side 2-0 in their opening Group D match at BC Place.
Goals from debutant Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe secured all three points for the Socceroos, handing Turkey — featuring talents like Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu — a disappointing start to their first World Cup campaign in 24 years.
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute against the run of play. After a strong save from goalkeeper Patrick Beach, Australia launched a rapid counter. Irankunda, the exciting young forward, raced onto a through ball, showed composure, and slotted home past the Turkish keeper for a 1-0 lead. His celebration — nodding to past Socceroos legends — lit up the green-and-gold faithful in the stands.
Turkey dominated possession (around 68%) and created several chances, with Güler causing problems in tight spaces and Çalhanoğlu pulling strings from midfield. However, the Socceroos’ compact 5-4-1 setup under coach Tony Popovic, anchored by captain Harry Souttar and a rock-solid backline, proved impenetrable.
Turkey pushed forward aggressively after halftime in search of an equalizer, but Australia remained dangerous on the break. In the 75th minute, the ball broke to Metcalfe 25 yards out. The midfielder unleashed a powerful left-footed drive that arrowed into the near post, making it 2-0 and effectively sealing the result.
This victory marks one of Australia’s strongest World Cup performances to date, building on their history of upsetting stronger opponents (including reaching the round of 16 in 2006 and 2014). With the win, Australia sits level on points with the United States at the top of Group D.
Turkish fans were left frustrated as their side failed to convert territorial dominance into clear-cut chances, with early pressure (including a post hit) fading into inefficiency.
Australia will look to build momentum in their remaining group games, while Turkey must regroup quickly to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive in a competitive Group D featuring the USA and Paraguay.
Full-time: Australia 2-0 Turkey
Scorers: Irankunda 27′, Metcalfe 75′
The Aussies are back — and the World Cup has its first major shock. 🇦🇺
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