Australian fans poured onto the streets and packed Melbourne’s Federation Square after the Socceroos opened their FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Turkey on Saturday night.Videos of celebrations quickly spread across social media as supporters marked what could prove to be a key result in Australia’s bid to reach the Round of 32. Federation Square turned into a sea of green and gold, with flares lit and thousands of fans celebrating the victory.The celebrations followed Australia’s win over a Turkey side playing at the World Cup for the first time in 24 years. Turkey had reached the semifinals in 2002 but failed to qualify for the next five editions before booking their place at the 2026 tournament through a playoff win over Kosovo.On the field, Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored as Australia began their campaign with three points in front of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The Socceroos are appearing in their sixth consecutive World Cup and seventh overall.Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a low finish despite being chased by three defenders. The goal came less than a minute after the first-half hydration break.The 20-year-old Watford player celebrated by punching the corner flag in tribute to Australian football great Tim Cahill. The strike also made him Australia’s youngest goalscorer at a FIFA World Cup.Australia almost doubled their lead soon after, while at the other end goalkeeper Patrick Beach made a crucial save to deny Abdulkerim Bardakci’s long-range effort. Beach was selected ahead of experienced goalkeeper Matthew Ryan in a surprise call by coach Tony Popovic.The goalkeeper finished with eight saves as Australia kept a clean sheet and secured a result that sparked celebrations across the country.
