World Cup 2026: Australia stun Turkey after selection gamble pays off
Summary
Australia won their opening match against Turkey 2-0 in the World Cup 2026 Group D game at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium. New players, including goalkeeper Patrick Beach and midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler, helped secure the win with goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe.Key Facts
- Australia defeated Turkey 2-0 in their first World Cup 2026 Group D match.
- Goals were scored by Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe.
- Australia’s coach Tony Popovic made surprising changes, starting rookie goalkeeper Patrick Beach over the experienced Maty Ryan.
- Paul Okon-Engstler, a 21-year-old midfielder, replaced vice-captain Jackson Irvine and helped set up the first goal.
- Turkey controlled most of the game but struggled to score due to Beach’s strong goalkeeping.
- Irankunda celebrated his goal by mimicking former Australia captain Tim Cahill’s signature celebration.
- Australia and the United States are tied on three points in Group D; they will play each other next in Seattle.
- Turkey was making its first World Cup appearance since 2002 but could not overcome Australia.
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