Cricket who? Australia erupted in celebration after the Socceroos stunned Turkey

Australia celebrated in the streets on Sunday, June 14, after the country’s soccer team caused a major upset at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Playing against Turkey, Australia showed incredible resilience and counter-attacking ability to record a 2-0 win against Hakan Calhanoglu’s side.

Several videos of Australians celebrating in the streets went viral on Sunday as the country recorded an all-important victory that could prove decisive for their hopes of qualifying for the next stage of the tournament.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Australia vs Turkey highlights

However, the celebrations raised an uncomfortable question on social media. When Pat Cummins’ Australia won the 2023 ODI World Cup, beating hosts India, why were there no parades for the Australian cricket team? After all, why didn’t the country line up outside the airport when the team returned home as world champions in the 50-over format?

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The celebrations also highlighted the difference in sporting calendars and how football continues to favor the FIFA World Cup as the biggest global competition in sport.

This is in stark contrast to the way the International Cricket Council operates, which hosts a major global tournament almost every year.

Cricket itself is already divided into Tests, ODIs and T20Is, which has left new fans quite confused. Having world tournaments almost every year only added to the fatigue of the spectators.

FIFA WORLD CUP: AUSTRALIA STUN TURKEY

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Australia’s win was built on defensive discipline and sharp counter-attacks rather than dominance on the ball.

Although Turkiye controlled possession and created more chances, Australia remained organized at the back and struck at the right moments. Coach Tony Popovic prepared his team to absorb pressure and attack quickly, with Mohamed Toure and Nestory Irankunda providing the pace on the break.

The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Irankunda controlled a long ball, beat his keeper and calmly finished for his sixth international goal.

Turkiye, who returned to the World Cup after 24 years, continued to push for an equalizer but struggled to break down Australia’s compact defensive set-up. Goalkeeper Patrick Beach also made some important saves to preserve the lead.

Australia later doubled their advantage through Connor Metcalfe to seal one of the biggest surprises of the tournament’s opening week.

After the game, Popovic praised his young team for executing the game plan and rising to the occasion.

“I’m proud to be here as a head coach, to experience that and put a smile on the faces of these people who traveled so far to support us,” Popovich said.

Australia will take on co-hosts the United States in Seattle.

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Issued by:

Kingshuk Kusari

Published on:

June 14, 2026 5:43 PM IST