Archie Goodwin and Noah Botic are two emerging Australian forwards shining brightly in the Isuzu UTE A-League this season. Both players have netted eight goals, placing them just one strike away from the coveted top spot on the Golden Boot leaderboard.
However, which of these rising stars is better positioned for a call-up to the Socceroos based on their current performance?
In a remarkable first season at Adelaide United, Goodwin has shattered his previous best of seven goals from a total of 44 matches at Newcastle Jets, accomplishing this feat in just 15 appearances.
After overcoming a series of injuries early in his career, the 20-year-old has taken on a pivotal role in an exciting Reds line-up, consistently delivering match-winning performances and propelling Adelaide into the Premiership race.
Goodwin’s impressive displays for the Reds are even more notable given the risk Adelaide took in replacing their top scorers from last season, Hiroshi Ibusuki and Nestory Irankunda, with Goodwin, alongside fellow teen Luka Jovanovic—both relatively inexperienced players fresh from a challenging tenure at the Jets.
As Goodwin receives more game time, the anticipation grows about what he and Western’s Botic could contribute offensively for the Socceroos in the future.
“Honestly, I’m perhaps more excited by Archie Goodwin,” Rugari remarked. “He seems to have a wider array of skills. He’s definitely trending in the right direction… During his time with Newcastle, he scored nine goals in 47 appearances. Already at Adelaide, he has eight in just 15, which proves it was a great move for both him and the club.”
“We often discuss player transfers and how clubs sell their talent. This was a stroke of genius on Adelaide’s part. They not only secured an impactful striker for the league but if he finishes this season strongly and continues next season, he is bound to attract interest.”
“Considering Ariath Piol was sold for $800,000, you’d be looking at a minimum of $1.5 million, if not more, for Archie Goodwin.”
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“Carl Veart’s work with young Australian talent often flies under the radar,” Oar mentioned. “He was an exceptional striker himself, making it an ideal environment for Goodwin to hone his skills. He’s elevated his game this season, and I’m certain scouts from overseas are already taking note. However, they will want to see him maintain a run of match fitness and dispel any lingering injury concerns.”
“He is undoubtedly a tremendous talent, and I can’t wait to witness his development throughout the remainder of this season.”
On the other hand, Botic is also making waves at Western United, having scored five of his eight goals in his most recent five matches—performance that earned him the Isuzu UTE A-League’s Shark Player of the Month award in January.
The 23-year-old has garnered backing from Western’s head coach John Aloisi, a Socceroos legend, to break into the national team, with his displays catching the attention of Socceroos head coach Tony Popovic, who was present at 11 league matches over 16 days in January in search of local talent.
WEEKEND PREVIEW: Key insights for Round 19 of the Isuzu UTE A-League
As the Socceroos prepare for matches against Malaysia and China later this March, Rugari and Oar evaluated the selection prospects for both Botic and Goodwin, who have been in fine form in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
“Botic has recorded eight goals along with four assists this season,” Rugari mentioned. “On the other hand, Archie Goodwin has also netted eight goals… currently, who appears to lead in terms of potential Socceroos selection?”
“I believe Botic holds the edge,” Oar responded. “There are lingering doubts over Goodwin’s fitness and how well his body can handle consistent week-to-week football. He still struggles to complete full matches regularly. That step of being able to consistently last the full 90 minutes is essential for him. We know how talented he is when he’s on the pitch, but history shows that if young players fail to manage their fitness, it can hinder their trajectory.”
“Still, both have made crucial contributions and are vital to their teams’ attacking efforts this season.”
“Should they both continue on this path, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t be considered for spots in the Socceroos.”
Botic is among several exciting young talents at Western United this season, as Aloisi’s fourth-placed side climbs the ladder thanks to a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars.
Teenage centre-back Dylan Leonard is making a strong impact in his first A-League season, while Matthew Grimaldi (21), Jordan Lauton (21), Rhys Bozinovski (20), Jake Najdovski (19), and Luke Vickery (19) have made notable contributions, aiding Western in recovering from a shaky start to their campaign.
Moreover, there’s Abel Walatee, the 20-year-old forward who added a fourth goal to his growing highlight reel in Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Macarthur Bulls.
Walatee is a thrilling talent emerging from the club’s academy and is quickly becoming a vital asset in Western’s attacking lineup. Equipped with an array of skills and a precise finish, he has progressed from a three-match debut season to make an even bigger impact in the ongoing 2024-25 season, capturing the attention of Rugari and Oar, who foresee a bright future for Walatee at Western.
“I was particularly impressed by the way Abel Walatee scored,” Rugari reflected on the 20-year-old’s impressive footwork and powerful finish against the Bulls.
“He is truly developing into a fantastic player. I’m excited to see what the next 18-24 months bring for him.”
“He has only recently come into prominence, but his close control and composure in high-pressure situations stand out. We often see Australian players misfire in such scenarios, but he has shown remarkable poise under pressure.”
Oar added: “Absolutely, and his ability to protect the ball and maneuver it effectively showcases his well-rounded skill set for his age. He’s undoubtedly among the league’s most promising talents, and with four goals to his name this season, he is invaluable to the team’s efforts.”
“He’s certainly an exciting prospect in the league, and his contributions thus far have been fantastic.”
WEEKEND PREVIEW: Key insights for Round 19 of the Isuzu UTE A-League
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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