Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe delivered Australia’s first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 set up a blockbuster showdown next Saturday with Group D rivals and hosts USA.

Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe delivered Australia’s first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 set up a blockbuster showdown next Saturday with Group D rivals and hosts USA.

After Melbourne were a clear class above Essendon at the MCG, North Melbourne and Sydney survived interstate thrillers against West Coast and Port Adelaide respectively.

After Melbourne were a clear class above Essendon at the MCG, North Melbourne and Sydney survived interstate thrillers against West Coast and Port Adelaide respectively.