CORNERFLICK
Australia beat Turkey 2-0 in their opening match at the 2026 World Cup, with a disciplined display at BC Place in Vancouver delivering three points in Group D.
Turkey had more of the ball, but Australia stayed compact without it and used counter-attacks to catch the more fancied side out. Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu struggled to make an impact in the first half as Australia’s midfield and back line limited the space in front of them.
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute. Oukon slid a precise pass into Irankunda, who beat Demiral with a standing dribble before guiding a finish beyond Uğurcan Çakır into the far corner.
Turkey hit the post through Bardakcı three minutes later, but Australia kept its shape and led at the interval. Beich then denied Güler from a dangerous free-kick early in the second half before Australia struck again in the 75th minute, when Metcalfe won the ball in midfield, drove to the edge of the area and curled in a fine second.
Turkey’s best chance to respond came two minutes later, but Aktürkoğlu shot straight at Beich. Australia saw out the game comfortably, while Irankunda was named the standout performer after scoring and troubling Turkey throughout.