Starlet Nestory Irankunda channeled his inner Tim Cahill after scoring a brilliant opening goal in the Socceroos' historic World Cup win over Turkey. Photo: AFP
Nestory Irankunda called it "unreal" after the 20-year-old, born in a refugee camp, played a pivotal role in Australia's shock 2-0 World Cup win over Turkey.
The livewire winger put the unfancied Socceroos on their way after 27 minutes in Vancouver on Saturday and Connor Metcalfe scored another in the second half to make the game safe.
It was a brave but clinical display by a dogged Australia after coach Tony Popovic pulled off a big shock in his starting lineup, dropping experienced captain and goalkeeper Mathew Ryan in favour of rookie Patrick Beach. Vice-captain Jackson Irvine was also left out and Popovic's gambles paid off handsomely as Australia made a winning start in Group D.
Up next are co-hosts the United States, in Seattle on Friday. The Americans will be particularly cautious of the all-action Irankunda, who burst through the Turkey backline before firing home.
