‘The best thing that’s happened to me in a long time’ - Irankunda revelling Socceroos inclusion
Nestory Irankunda says his involvement for the Subway Socceroos this window has been a dream come true, following the side’s 2-0 win over Bangladesh on Thursday night.
The 18-year-old was included in the senior Australia squad for the first official time in the June window and earned his first start for the team in the victory at Bashundhara Kings Arena.
He said he was shocked to hear he was going to start Thursday’s FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier.
“I'm really happy that Graham Arnold's had the belief in me, the coaches have had the belief in me, to play me from the start,” Irankunda said.
“I was kind of in a shock, but obviously, I took it as I take it with any other game.
“I just prepared myself as well as I could to come and perform for the nation.”
It was a productive outing for the winger who assisted the first goal by playing a simple pass to Ajdin Hrustic, whose long-range strike took a wicked deflection on its way in.
Irankunda said he was pleased with his performance in the green and gold, getting through over an hour of the fixture.
“I reckon I've done pretty well for my debut. Obviously, I was really nervous,” he said.
“I feel good, but it was really hot though, humid.
“I gave it to him [Hrustic]. He took the shot, he scored so I’m really happy with that. I don't really want to claim that. It was a great shot from him.”
After Hrustic’s opener, Australia remained patient in attack and limited Bangladesh to only two shots throughout the game.
The Socceroos added their second goal moments before Irankunda was replaced when Kusini Yengi nodded home Jordan Bos’ cross.
Irankunda said that considering they were away from home and the hot and humid conditions, the team played well.
“It was a great performance from the team. We kept the clean sheet that the coaches were talking to us about, and everybody should be happy with the result that we got,” he said.
“We played away, in tough conditions. There was a good atmosphere from the fans as well.
“It wasn't easy, but we are really happy to get the win.”
The new Bayern Munich starlet also said that being around the players he grew up watching has been a special time for him this window.
“It's been really exciting to be with players that you watch on TV and players you dream of playing with as well, so it's been really great,” Irankunda.
“I've been watching [Mathew] Leckie since I was younger. 2014 World Cup and onwards, I've been watching Leckie.
“It's just been amazing being at this camp. Hopefully, I get the chance to come to another one because it's been amazing. It’s the best thing that's happened to me in a long time.”
The Socceroos have now confirmed their place in the next round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying.
They will play their final game of this round of qualifying on Tuesday night at 10:05pm (AEST) against Palestine, who are placed second in the group.
Australia v Palestine
Date: Tuesday, 11 June 2024
Venue: HBF Park, Perth
Kick-off: 8:05pm AWST / (10:05pm AEST)
Tickets: via Ticketmaster