Australia Ambush Turkey 2-0 in World Cup Opener – Green and Gold News Summary:

- Australia stun Turkey 2-0 at BC Place in Vancouver to shake up Group D.

- Nestory Irankunda becomes Australia's youngest ever World Cup goalscorer at 20 years, 125 days.

- Australia level with the USA atop the group ahead of a blockbuster matchday two clash.

Australia Rewrite Group D Script

Wind back the clock 24 hours and few were giving Tony Popovic's side a prayer against Vincenzo Montella's Turkey, widely tipped as the group favourites alongside the United States. 

Australia didn't get that memo. Instead, they soaked up pressure, picked their moments on the counterattack, and walked off Canadian turf with a result that has flipped the entire group on its head.

Turkey dominated possession and threw plenty at the Australian backline through the gifted attacking duo of Kenan Yildiz and Arda Guler. 

But goalkeeper Patrick Beach was in inspired form between the sticks, and a disciplined defensive shape ensured the Crescent-Stars never found the breakthrough their possession warranted.

Irankunda Makes World Cup History for Australia

The moment of the night belonged to Nestory Irankunda. The Watford winger latched onto a raking long ball from Paul Okon-Engstler, brushed off the Turkish backline and slotted coolly past Ugurcan Cakir to open the scoring in the first half.

At 20 years and 125 days old, Irankunda became Australia's youngest ever scorer at a World Cup, breaking a record held by Brett Holman since 2010.

"It is unreal. A dream come true," Irankunda said after full-time. "We worked extra hard, we thought until the end. It's an exciting moment."

The young gun also wasn't shy about where the motivation came from. "Obviously, we don't like to hear people talk bad about us because we are a great team. People underestimate us and we showed them today that we can play. They kept the ball a lot more, but who scored the goals? We scored the goals."

Metcalfe seals it as Australia eye knockout stage

With Turkey throwing numbers forward in search of a leveller, Connor Metcalfe delivered the killer blow with around 15 minutes left on the clock. 

Picking the ball up outside the area, the midfielder unleashed a thumping strike that flew past Cakir and sparked scenes among the travelling green and gold faithful.

The second goal effectively snuffed out any hopes of a Turkish comeback and leaves Montella's men with serious work to do when they meet Paraguay next.

Popovic was understandably chuffed with the performance, particularly the bravery of his younger contingent who combined for the opener.

"Proud. Proud to be here as head coach," the Socceroos boss said. "Just happy for a group of wonderful young men… That was quite special seeing the young boys combine for the goal. You can't underestimate what this will do for the confidence and belief."

What's Next for Australia?

Australia now sit level with the USA on points at the top of Group D, with a Round of 32 berth suddenly looking very achievable. 

The two will square off on 19 June, with top spot — and a kinder path through the knockout stage — well and truly up for grabs.

After being written off before a ball was kicked, the Socceroos have made it crystal clear: they're not just here to make up the numbers.