Okon-Engstler debuts as Australia beat Turkey at the World Cup

Australia beat Turkey, Okon-Engstler starts and shines

Your Socceroos got the job done against Turkey at this World Cup. Paul Okon-Engstler, in tears before the match, made his debut start ahead of veteran Jackson Irvine, and delivered on the night that mattered (1). A young player trusted by Tony Popovic, and the faith paid off.

Irankunda makes history

The youngest Australian ever to score at a World Cup. Irankunda's goal came with a story his family carried across borders. "Mis padres huyeron de la guerra, no querían perder la vida", my parents fled the war, they didn't want to lose their lives (4). He is now a Watford player and, undeniably, a Socceroos landmark.

Villarreal are watching

One of your World Cup performers has caught Villarreal's eye. The Spanish club are tracking an Australian player who impressed at the tournament, though no name has been confirmed yet (3).

Asian teams haven't lost to Europe

Australia, Japan, South Korea, Qatar, not a single loss against European sides so far this tournament (2). Japan's Daichi Kamada and South Korea's Son Heung-min have led the charge. An unbeaten run that includes results against the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Ireland.

Istanbul missed the match

Turkish fans in Istanbul gathered at a big screen to watch Australia-Turkey. They got a video game instead of the World Cup broadcast (5). A messy error in a city that cared deeply about the result.

Fan reactions

The mood online is buzzing. Fans are calling this one of the most entertaining World Cups in memory, every match has had a goal, and Australia-Turkey is being singled out as a highlight alongside Qatar's dramatic draw with Switzerland. Read the thread here.