Australia stunned Turkey 2-0 in their World Cup Group D opener on Saturday, with coach Tony Popovic’s selection calls immediately vindicated.
Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored the goals at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, while goalkeeper Patrick Beach produced a standout performance in just his third international appearance. Beach was preferred to experienced captain Maty Ryan in a surprise move, with vice-captain Jackson Irvine also left out as Popovic named a side featuring 10 World Cup debutants.
Both changes proved decisive. Beach made a series of key saves as Turkey controlled possession and territory but struggled to break down Australia’s defence. Paul Okon-Engstler, one of the youngest starters at 21, also played a key role, setting up the opening goal with a long ball that split the Turkish back line.
Turkey’s best chance in the first half came in the 27th minute when Arda Guler forced a strong save from Beach. Australia responded immediately. Beach released Okon-Engstler, who launched a pass forward for Irankunda to run onto. The winger took a composed first touch to beat the defence before finishing low to give Australia the lead.
Turkey almost levelled minutes later when Abdulkerim Bardakci struck from distance, but Beach tipped the shot onto the post. He continued to frustrate Turkey after the break, including a save from a Guler free-kick in the 57th minute.
Australia sealed the result in the 75th minute when Metcalfe drove from midfield and scored from 25 yards. The win puts Australia level on three points with Group D leaders the United States ahead of their meeting in Seattle on Friday.
