Australia secured a surprising 2-0 victory over Turkey in their 2026 World Cup Group D opener in Vancouver. Goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe gave the Socceroos the win despite Turkey dominating possession. Goalkeeper Patrick Beach was instrumental, making eight saves in his debut. The result places Australia second in Group D behind the USA, whom they face next.
Australia victory over Turkey
- ▪Australia won despite having only 28.3% possession, their lowest in any World Cup match
- ▪Nestory Irankunda scored the opening goal for Australia in the 27th minute on a counter-attack
- ▪Turkey dominated possession with over 70% and had 30 attempts on goal, but only eight were on target
World Cup 2026 opener
- ▪The 2026 World Cup features an expanded format of 48 teams in 12 groups, with top teams advancing to a Round of 32
- ▪The match was held at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada, on June 13, 2026
- ▪The match was Turkey's first appearance at the World Cup finals since finishing third in 2002
Group D standings
- ▪Australia's next match is against the United States on June 19 in Seattle
- ▪Turkey will play their next match against Paraguay on June 19 in Santa Clara
- ▪The United States leads Group D over Australia on goal differential after defeating Paraguay 4-1
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