Australia began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a 2-0 victory over Turkey in an entertaining Group D encounter at BC Place in Vancouver.
The Socceroos took control of the match in the first half and were rewarded when exciting young winger Nestory Irankunda broke the deadlock to put Australia ahead.
Turkey attempted to respond after the break but struggled to break down a disciplined Australian defence that remained solid throughout the contest.
Australia eventually sealed the victory in the second half when Connor Metcalfe found the back of the net to double his side’s advantage and put the result beyond doubt.
The win gives the Socceroos a perfect start to their World Cup campaign and puts them level on points with the United States, who opened their tournament with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay.
Australia will now turn their attention to a mouth-watering clash against the United States on June 19 as both sides battle for control of Group D.
Turkey, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their opening defeat when they face Paraguay on June 20 in their second group fixture.
