Australia Shock Turkiye 2-0 as Indian Origin Star Nishan Velupillay Debuts at FIFA World Cup
Indian origin winger Nishan Velupillay made his FIFA World Cup debut for Australia as the Socceroos defeated Turkiye 2-0 in their Group D opener on June 14, 2026. The 25-year-old entered the match in the 61st minute and helped protect Australia's lead.
In the opening Group D match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Australia produced one of the early surprises of the tournament by defeating Turkiye 2-0 and taking an important step towards qualification for the knockout stage. The match also marked a historic moment for Australian football as Indian origin winger Nishan Velupillay made his FIFA World Cup debut. The 25 year old, whose mother Gillian Velupillay is of Anglo Indian heritage, entered the match in the 61st minute and played a disciplined role as Australia protected their advantage.
Although he did not get many opportunities to showcase his attacking skills, he contributed defensively as the Socceroos secured a clean sheet. Velupillay became the first Indian origin footballer to feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Nishan's rise has been rapid since making his senior Australia debut in 2024. He scored just 7 minutes after coming on in a World Cup qualifier against China, helping Australia to a 3-1 victory. Since then, he has earned 8 international appearances and scored 3 goals, all in World Cup qualifying matches.
Australia's victory was built on goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a brilliant counterattacking finish, while Metcalfe sealed the result in the 75th minute with a strike from outside the box. Strong defending ensured Turkiye's return to the World Cup after 24 years ended in defeat.