Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterAnge Postecoglou had high praise at half-time of his nation's World Cup 2026 clash Australia are currently leading 1-0 against Turkey in their Group D showdown.Turkey entered the clash in superior form, boasting an impressive six wins from seven, mostly during World Cup qualifiers.In contrast, Australia took just two wins from their last seven games, with four defeats interspersed - but Nestory Irankunda had other ideas for tonight's battle.Ange Postecoglou offers high praise for Australia wonderkid Nestory Irankunda after strike vs Turkey, World Cup 2026The Socceroos entered the second half with a 1-0 lead, despite Turkey dominating the possession and shot statistics.Turkey recorded 69% possession, and 10 shots to Australia's four, but a wonder strike from an equally wonder kid in Nestory Irankunda changed everything. You may like The new Michael Owen? Australia starlet Nestory Irankunda announces himself in style with fabulous World Cup goal How to watch Australia vs Turkey for FREE Australia squad World Cup 2026: Tony Popovic's team for opening game against Turkey In the 27th minute, the Watford winger scored a solo goal that was akin to a classic Luis Suarez goal vs Norwich.Sent in down the left side, the Australian winger outstretched a foot to dink a bouncing ball back inside the defender, getting central.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.The 20-year-old (and 124 days), now Australia's youngest ever World Cup goalscorer, did not waste the opportunity he'd created through his trickery.The youngster delicately tucked the ball just inside the left post with his right foot, before reeling away in celebration.As expected, Australian football legend Ange Postecoglou had strong praise for the 20-year-old at half-time.On Irankunda's goal, the ex-Spurs boss said: "[It] doesn't matter what level of football you're playing... if you have this kind of speed, you're always going to be a threat."[It's] exactly what Popovic would have wanted. [Australia] are always a threat on the counter attack, as exemplified by the goal."Postecoglou concluded with a high praise for Irankunda's future: "Sometimes in World Cups, you just need a couple of good weeks and your whole world changes."TOPICSAnge PostecoglouAustraliaTurkeyKedar BayleySocial Links NavigationFreelance WriterKedar Bayley is a trained journalist specialising in culture reporting. As a fan of Liverpool FC,he writes on the Reds often. Knowledgable about all things sports, cinema and television,you can find his words in Screen International, FourFourTwo, Manchester Evening News and more.
