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Australia kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over Turkey in Vancouver on June 14, and the story of the match wasn’t the scoreline. It was a 21-year-old wiping tears from his eyes before kickoff.
Paul Okon-Engstler, a surprise starter for the Socceroos, delivered one of the most emotionally charged debuts in recent World Cup memory. The Sydney FC midfielder registered an assist on the opening goal and helped Australia control the match from start to finish.
A family affair in Vancouver
The selection itself was a shock. Okon-Engstler was named in the starting lineup ahead of vice-captain Jackson Irvine, a decision that raised eyebrows before the match and silenced critics after it.
Born on January 24, 2005, Okon-Engstler is the son of Paul Okon, a 28-time Socceroo who was part of Australia’s 2006 World Cup campaign. The elder Okon now serves as an assistant coach for the national team. He was visibly emotional on the bench watching his son take the field.
Nestory Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute, with Okon-Engstler providing the assist. Connor Metcalfe added a second goal to put the result beyond doubt. Australia’s defense held firm for the clean sheet.
This marked Australia’s first victory in a World Cup opening match since 2006, the same tournament cycle in which the elder Okon was involved with the national team.
From Benfica to Sydney to the World Cup
Okon-Engstler’s path to Vancouver took a notable detour through Europe. He joined Sydney FC on a three-year deal from Portuguese giants Benfica in July 2025, returning to Australian football after a stint in one of Europe’s most prestigious youth systems.
Less than a year after signing with Sydney FC, he was starting a World Cup match.
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