Irankunda and Metcalfe Fire Australia Past Turkey
Debut goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe gave Australia a 2-0 win over Turkey in their Group D opener at BC Place in Vancouver.
A ustralia opened their World Cup with an impressive 2-0 win over Turkey at BC Place in Vancouver, Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe both scoring to give the Socceroos a statement start in Group D.
Two fine finishes
Irankunda put Australia ahead in the 27th minute and Metcalfe doubled the lead in the 75th, both well-taken goals on a memorable night for the pair. Turkey, captained by Hakan Çalhanoğlu, could not find a way back and had Yunus Akgün booked late on as Australia saw out a notable win.
It is an eye-catching result for Australia against fancied opponents, and a frustrating start for Turkey, in front of 52,497.
Reporting: based on official FIFA match data and reports from OneFootball and FIFA, June 14, 2026.