The AFC Under-20 Asian Cup? Accomplished. Subway Young Socceroos standout Alex Badolato is now eager to make his mark in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
In a thrilling performance, Badolato and the Young Socceroos dazzled during the Asian Cup in China, securing Australia’s first-ever U20 Asian Cup title with a nail-biting 5-4 penalties victory against Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
This groundbreaking achievement not only earned Australia its maiden U20 Asian Cup trophy but also saw Badolato recognised as the tournament MVP, having tallied three assists and two goals for Trevor Morgan’s team.
“This team really is a band of brothers,” Badolato remarked upon returning to Australia. “We’ve been working hard together all over the globe for the past 18 months.”
“The camaraderie we share is evident both on and off the pitch, and I think that showed throughout the tournament.”
Touching down in Sydney on Monday morning, the 20-year-old is now keen to secure regular playing time in the Isuzu UTE A-League, although at a different club.
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After completing a late loan transfer from the Wanderers on deadline day, just prior to joining the Young Socceroos, Badolato will now be spending the remainder of the season on loan at Melbourne Victory.
“Once I received a few offers, I was determined to find a place where I could get some game time,” he stated.
“Melbourne Victory is a fantastic stepping stone. It’s a prestigious club, the most successful in the country, and I see it as an incredible opportunity that I was eager to embrace.”
Despite making 11 appearances in the Isuzu UTE A-League for the Wanderers this season, Badolato has found his playing time limited under head coach Alen Stajcic.
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Having played just 34 minutes in total, and with his contract set to expire at season’s end, Badolato is confident that this move will benefit all involved.
“With the Wanderers, you know football is a game of opinions. That’s simply how it goes,” he explained. “The Wanderers are a strong team with significant competition for places.”
He added: “I’ve had conversations with Dilla (Victory head coach Arthur Diles), and he’s been fantastic.”
“I’ve talked to him several times during the tournament. He’s shared the Melbourne Victory philosophy, and now it’s just about getting down there to train and showing what I can bring to the team, hoping it earns me minutes on the pitch.”
Having excelled for the national team throughout the tournament, Badolato aims to replicate that form in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
Looking ahead, both the Young Socceroos and Badolato have their sights set on the FIFA U20 World Cup, taking place in Chile this September and October.
“I believe it’s a crucial 12 months for me personally,” he said. “There are numerous opportunities ahead, not just in the A-League but also the World Cup.”
“The World Cup is certainly something I’m aiming for by the year’s end.”
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When asked if a potential Socceroos call-up is on his mind, the 20-year-old quickly tempered expectations.
“Playing for the Socceroos is undoubtedly a dream for every kid. But for now, I’m taking it one step at a time,” he replied.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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