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'Let Them Talk': Socceroos Hero Bites Back at Claim Türkiye 'Dominated'

On Sunday, the Socceroos defeated the Turkish team 2-0 in Vancouver during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tony Popovic's side silenced pre-match doubters with a commanding performance.
Turkish midfielder Hakan claimed his side "dominated" the Socceroos, publicly declaring confidence the day before the match. His pre-game comments motivated the Australian team to prove themselves on the field.
Nestory Irankunda scored, emulating Tim Cahill with his celebration. "We were told that there were some things said, and obviously that gave us fire in our belly," Irankunda said.
Despite 78 per cent possession, the Turkish side failed to penetrate the Australian defense. The Socceroos executed a perfect counterattacking performance, remaining a constant threat throughout.
The Socceroos next play the United States on Saturday as they look to seal progression to the knockout stage. Victory would advance them from the Group following their opening-match success.

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'Let them talk': Socceroos hero bites back at claim Türkiye 'dominated'

Socceroos goalscoring hero Nestory Irankunda says Türkiye could not back up its talk, despite one of its stars claiming post-game Australia had been "dominated".

6 days ago·Australia

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Kronen Zeitung

Right

From the Refugee Camp to the Bright World Cup Ramplight

With his goal in the 2-0 victory against Turkey, Nestory Irankunda has not only enchanted all of Australia. An adventure at FC Bayern came perhaps too early, now the sprint rocket can re-start in Europe. The 20-year-old was once born in Tanzania – and could become a popular kicker on the playstation.

6 days ago·Vienna, Austria

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Origo

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The New World Cup Hero Was Born in a Refugee Camp and Learned a Few Things From Harry Kane

His role model celebrated with goal joy against the Turks

6 days ago·Budapest, Hungary

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Saudi Gazette

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Irankunda shines as Australia stuns Türkiye in World Cup opener

Nestory Irankunda starred as Australia defeated Türkiye 2-0 in Group D of FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the youngest Socceroos player to score at a World Cup.

7 days ago·Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

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India Today

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From refugee camp to FIFA World Cup glory: Australia's Irankunda rewrites history

Australia beat Türkiye 2-0 in Vancouver as Nestory Irankunda scored from a rapid counterattack. The goal made him Australia's youngest World Cup scorer and sharpened the scale of his rise from Kigoma refugee camp to the elite game.

7 days ago·India

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