Thousands of supporters packed Sydney’s Tumbalong Park live site to witness Australia secure victory in its first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Socceroos delivered an impressive 2-0 triumph over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver, with spectacular goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe sealing the result.
Fans from both countries turned out in large numbers at live sites nationwide, while Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park was transformed into a hub for football fever.
In the end, however, it was Australian supporters who had the most to celebrate.
The win marked Australia’s first victory in an opening group-stage game at a FIFA World Cup since 2006.
Nestory Irankunda (pictured celebrating) scored Australia’s first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Flares were let off in Tumbalong Park after Irankunda’s goal
Tumbalong Park was met with thousands of fans for Australia’s opening match of the World Cup
Upon arriving at the landmark venue, the queue to get into the viewing area had already stretched for more than a kilometre.
The nearby pubs and restaurants were also packed to the rafters, with the Aussie fans nearly being outnumbered by the Turkish supporters.
A sea of red greeted me as I entered into the specific area, with a large wave of Turkish fans arriving about 40 minutes before kick off.
The atmosphere kept building, with fans of both nations going bezerk when their countries players were shown on the big screen before kick-0ff.
Supporters of the Socceroos then made their presence felt, booing and jeering when the Turkish team sung their national anthem, and whenever they had possession.
Although it originally seemed like there were more Turks, as time went on, the Aussie fans kept finding their voice.
When Irankunda’s amazing shot hit the back of the net, the massive crowd went ballistic under the sunny skies at Tumbalong Park.
Flares were let off, and fans began jumping for joy in the aftermath of the 27th-minute strike, with the volume increasing from zero to 100 in an instant.
With the goal, the 20-year-old became the youngest Australian scorer in a FIFA World Cup.
He then mimicked his hero Tim Cahill by punching the corner post in celebration, in a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
As Australia emerged from half-time, it needed to remain wary of a Türkiye side boasting stars who play in Europe’s top five leagues.
But Connor Metcalfe was the man to essentially finish the job, with a left-foot strike that found the bottom-right corner.
The goal, which was just his second at international level, sent fans at Tumbalong Park into a frenzy.
After a short, heavy downpour affected the experience for those watching in Sydney, fans who didn’t flock to shelter were rewarded with another incredible strike.
Connor Metcalfe (pictured) doubled Australia’s lead with a sweet strike in the second half
Supporters went crazy after both goals were scored
Australia’s performance has ensured Tony Popovic’s first World Cup match as a manager will be remembered fondly.
The 2-0 win puts the Socceroos in good stead for the rest of the tournament.
Australia will next take to the pitch next Saturday when it faces the United States.
It’s shaping up to be a grudge match of sorts, with many US pundits writing off the Socceroos chances pre-tournament.
The Daily Mail has contacted NSW Police for a comment regarding the flares being let off at the watch site.
