Although he never made a first-team appearance in Germany, Irankunda enjoyed plenty of time training with some of the world's top players, including England striker Kane.

Yet the lack of match minutes put his ambitions in jeopardy. His goal was to represent Australia at this World Cup.

He debuted in a World Cup qualifier in June 2024 versus Bangladesh and became the second-youngest scorer in national history when he found the net against Palestine in just his second outing.

After a loan spell at Swiss club Grasshopper last season, he faced a key choice in the summer.

It proved difficult when the chance arose to join Watford for an undisclosed fee and depart the Bundesliga giants, but he required regular play to secure his World Cup spot after dropping out of the Australia squad.

"It was a tough call but my main aim is to feature at the World Cup," Irankunda told Sky Sports last summer.

"The 2026 World Cup is approaching fast and I must gain minutes. I was not getting any.

"Playing in England has always been a personal dream."

Team-mate Mohamed Toure has nicknamed him 'Houdini' and suggested Irankunda could influence Australia much like Jude Bellingham has for England.

"I have seen many fine players but at times you encounter special talent and he is that," Toure added. "If he works hard and remains humble I think he will exceed the potential many already predict. He will go further."

He featured in 42 matches for Championship side Watford, netting four goals and providing five assists to earn World Cup selection.

Now he has made history for his nation in impressive fashion. His finish was outstanding after displaying pace and strength to create the chance in the 27th minute versus Turkey.

"No matter the level of football, whether in the park or at the World Cup, that speed is remarkable," former Australia and Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou told ITV.

It marked him as the first player born outside Australia to score a World Cup goal for the Socceroos.

He has previously celebrated goals by mimicking Michael Jackson, even wearing a white glove in March when scoring against Curacao.

This time he chose to honor former Australia and Everton midfielder Tim Cahill by punching the corner flag twice.

"Timmy Cahill is my greatest inspiration in football," Irankunda said after the win over Turkey.

"Along with Lionel Messi. Tim Cahill is Australia's best in my view. I decided that if I scored I would copy him and I got the chance."

Postecoglou thinks the goal could shape Irankunda's career path ahead.

"A huge moment," Postecoglou added. "At times in World Cups a strong couple of weeks can transform everything. Let us hope this marks the beginning for him."