FIFA World Cup 2026: Turkey has time to recover from chastening Australia defeat, coach says

Vancouver: Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella rued his side's slow start to the World Cup but said they still have time to recover from a humbling 2-0 defeat by Australia in their Group D opener on Saturday.

Returning to the ‌World ⁠Cup for ⁠the first time since 2002, Turkey dominated possession and camped ​out around the Australian box but were unable to break ​down the resolute green and gold wall.

Read more: FIFA World Cup 2026: Australia scores twice against run of play, blanks Turkey in opener


"We are extremely saddened," the Italian said. "We know there is still ​time to recover in the group ⁠stage.

"We know ‌that in the beginning, the team ​has ​been a little bit slow."

Turkey struggled to ⁠match Australia physically, with the Socceroos outmuscling ​their opponents in challenges and getting their ​heads to the ball first at crosses and corners.

"They're very tall, so it's very difficult sometimes," said Montella.

Australia had few chances but were dangerous on the break as Turkey scrambled to get players ‌back from attacking positions, a cause for concern for Montella.

Turkey are above their next ​opponents Paraguay ​on goal ⁠difference only, and need to win in San Francisco on June 19 to keep their hopes of reaching the ​knockout phase alive.

Read more: FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexican trade group chief removed after racist gesture toward South Korean influencer

While captain Hakan Calhanoglu's pre-match comments that Turkey were more talented than Australia ruffled some feathers, Montella was gracious in defeat.

"They have been very good," he said.