Australia move to second in Group D; Turkey drop to third

Australia defeated Turkey 2-0 in their 2026 North America World Cup Group D opener at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, on Sunday. [AFP]
Australia defeated Turkey 2-0 in their 2026 North America World Cup Group D opener at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, on Sunday. [AFP]

Australia opened their 2026 North America World Cup campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Turkey.

The Socceroos defeated Turkey in their Group D opener at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, on Sunday.

Nestory Irankunda broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, and Connor Metcalfe sealed the win with a second goal in the 75th minute.

Turkey mounted several attacks but could not break through Australia's resolute defense.

The result drew attention as another instance of an Asian side defeating a European opponent, following South Korea's win over the Czech Republic.

The victory earned Australia three points, lifting them to second place in Group D behind the United States.

Turkey currently sit third in the group.


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