Australia showcased some disciplined defending and clinical finishing to secure a 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place late Saturday, spoiling the Crescent-Stars' return to world football's biggest stage after a 24-year hiatus.
Pre-match attention had centred on Türkiye's Arda Güler, but it was Australia's youthful attack that made the difference.
Tony Popovic's side set up to absorb pressure and break quickly, with Mohamed Toure – back from illness – leading the line alongside Nestory Irankunda.
Their pace and directness provided a constant outlet on the counter, unsettling a Turkish side that dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances.
That approach paid off in the 27th minute when Irankunda combined pace and control with a composed finish for his sixth international goal, underlining why the 20-year-old is considered one of Australia's brightest talents.
