Australia spoiled Turkey’s return to the World Cup for the first time in 24 years with a 2-0 victory on Saturday night. Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored for the Socceroos in their group opener.

Irankunda broke through for the Socceroos in the 27th minute with a low shot while pursued by three defenders. He celebrated by punching the corner flag in a tribute to Australian soccer legend Tim Cahill.

Match Highlights

Connor Metcalfe capitalized on Ismail Yüksek’s turnover in the 75th minute to double the Socceroos’ lead. Turkey maintained 72% of possession during the match and outshot the Socceroos 30-9, but couldn’t manage to score.

Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella said, ‘I respect Australia very much. I was expecting that they would play in this way.’ The teams are in Group D with the United States and Paraguay.

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.