Australian fans took to the streets and packed Melbourne’s Federation Square as the Socceroos made their opening match. FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Turkey on Saturday night.Videos of the celebrations quickly spread on 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 was transformed into a sea of green and gold, lit up with flames and thousands of fans celebrated the victory.The celebration followed Australia’s win against Turkey, who were playing in the World Cup for the first time in 24 years. Turkey reached the semi-finals in 2002 but failed to qualify for the next five editions before booking their place at the 2026 tournament with a play-off win against Kosovo.On the field, Nestor Iran Kunda and Conor Metcalf scored as Australia opened their campaign with three points in front of FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The Socceroos are making their sixth consecutive World Cup appearance and seventh overall.Ericanda opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a low finish despite being chased by three defenders. The goal came less than a minute into the first half’s 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 the FIFA World Cup.Australia almost doubled their lead soon after, with goalkeeper Patrick Beach at the other end making a crucial save to deny Abdulkareem Bardaki’s long-range effort. Beach was selected ahead of veteran goalkeeper Matthew Ryan in a surprise call by coach Tony Popovich.The goalkeeper made eight saves as Australia kept a clean sheet and secured a result that sparked celebrations across the country.
