Australia stunned Turkey 2-0 in Vancouver to pull off their first World Cup upset

Australia caused the first major upset of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by beating world number 27 Turkey 2-0 at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14. The Socceroos’ defensive discipline, led by goalkeeper Patrick Beach, helped silence Turkey’s attacking threat in claiming Group D victory.

FIFA World Cup 2026, AUS vs TUR: Highlights

A goal in each half secured Australia all three points and finished second in Group D after the USA’s 4–1 win over Paraguay on 13 June.

Australia struck first in the 27th minute through teenage sensation Nestory Irankunda, who finished off a crushing counter-attack. Beach quickly released the ball to kill the move, with Okon laying it into the path of Irankunda. He raced on goal, kept his composure under pressure from akira and two defenders, slotted home a low finish to give Australia a shock 1-0 lead. The goal made Irankunda the youngest Australian to score at a FIFA World Cup. Australia’s Irakunda scores at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Turkey (Reuters Photo)

Turkiye responded by taking control of the ball after the break and dominating possession with more than 70% possession, but were repeatedly frustrated by Australia’s compact defensive structure. Despite their territorial dominance, clear-cut chances were limited as the Socceroos threw bodies on the line, aggressively closing down space and working together to protect their advantage.

Metcalfe doubled Australia’s lead in the 75th minute after a costly midfield turnover by Yuksek. He pounced on the mistake, drove forward to the edge of the box and curled a low strike into the bottom corner, leaving Turkish goalkeeper Cakir helpless and sending the Australian fans into celebration.

SOCCEROOS ARE SECOND IN GROUP D

From there, Australia’s focus shifted firmly to survival. The Turks surged forward and looked for a way back in their first World Cup appearance since 2002, but Patrick Beach continued to shine between the posts as the entire defensive unit stood firm under constant pressure. Set-pieces, crosses and long-range efforts failed to break through as the Socceroos refused to back down.

Despite Turkey’s dominance in possession, they were left to rue their lack of edge, while Australia’s intensity and organization proved decisive in securing a famous victory.

Australia’s win reshapes Group D, with the Socceroos now level on points near the top of the table. Meanwhile, Turkey have a must-win match against Paraguay on Friday to keep their hopes of elimination alive. Australia take on the USA in a highly anticipated showdown, with top spot in the group firmly in the cards.

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Published on:

14 Jun 2026 11:59 IST