In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D qualifiers, Australia's 'Socceroos' defeated Turkey 2-0, despite limited ball possession, by executing two effective defensive counterattacks in each half. This marks Australia's first opening match win in a World Cup qualifying campaign in 20 years.

This is Australia's seventh appearance in World Cup history. They previously reached the Round of 16 in 2006 and 2022. Turkey, on the other hand, has qualified for only the third time in their history, having achieved third place in the 2002 World Cup co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.

Group D includes host nation USA, Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. Currently, both the USA and Australia have secured opening victories.

Australia's last opening match win in a World Cup qualifier was in 2006, when they defeated Japan 3-1. Since then, they lost 0-4 to Germany in 2010, 1-3 to Chile in 2014, 1-2 to France in 2018, and 1-4 to France again in 2022.

Australia began the match with a defensive focus, avoiding prolonged possession and waiting for counterattacking opportunities. In the 27th minute, Nestory Irankunda received a long pass from a teammate, broke through one-on-one into the penalty area, evaded the goalkeeper's dive, and calmly slotted the ball into the net to open the scoring.

In the second half, Australia remained patient and extended their lead in the 75th minute. Connor Metcalfe, playing for a Bundesliga club, received a short pass, drove forward through defense, and fired a powerful shot from outside the 18-yard box to secure the decisive 2-0 lead.

Turkey, despite showing flashes of quality, struggled with technical execution and finishing. Their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by Australia's 22-year-old goalkeeper, Patrick Beach, who made several crucial saves.

Post-match statistics showed Turkey dominated possession with 57%, compared to Australia's 30%, yet failed to score. Turkey recorded 30 shots, but only 8 were on target.

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  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: Taiwan