Video credit: X/@FOXSoccer
Australian fans poured into the streets and gathered in Melbourne’s Etihad Square after the Socceroos opened their World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Türkiye on Saturday night.Videos of the celebrations quickly spread across social media, with fans taking note of what could be a key result in Australia’s bid to reach the last 32.
Union Square turned into a sea of green and gold, as torches were lit and thousands of fans celebrated the victory.The celebrations came after Australia’s victory over the Turkish team, which is playing in the World Cup for the first time in 24 years. Türkiye reached the semi-finals in 2002 but failed to qualify for the next five editions before booking their place in the 2026 tournament by beating Kosovo.On the field, Nestori Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored as Australia started their campaign with three points in front of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The Australian national team is appearing in its sixth consecutive World Cup Finals and seventh overall.
Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a low shot, despite being chased by three defenders. The goal came less than a minute after the hydration break in the first half.The 20-year-old Watford player celebrated by hitting the corner flag in tribute to Australian rules football great Tim Cahill. The strike also made him Australia’s youngest ever goal scorer in a FIFA World Cup.
Australia almost doubled their lead shortly after, while goalkeeper Patrick Beech at the other end blocked a long-range shot from Abdelkarim Bardaxi. Beach was selected ahead of experienced goaltender Matthew Ryan in a surprise call-up by coach Tony Popovich.The goalkeeper finished with eight shots, as Australia kept a clean sheet and secured a result that sparked celebrations across the country.