Wanderers boast a Socceroo and a World Cup champion, but this 22-year-old could prove pivotal for their season.

Zac Sapsford is having a standout season with the Western Sydney Wanderers in 2024-25. aleagues.com.au delves into the statistics that highlight the 22-year-old’s impressive form.

In a squad filled with stars like Brandon Borrello, Nicolas Milanovic, and Juan Mata, it’s easy to overlook the quieter presence at Western Sydney.

However, this unsung hero is making his mark in derby history, and is proving to be one of the most dangerous players in the Isuzu UTE A-League.

Let’s shine the spotlight on Zac Sapsford.

No other player in the Wanderers’ squad has netted more goals in Sydney Derbies than the 22-year-old. His double in last week’s thrilling encounter with fierce rivals Sydney FC brought his derby total to five, just one behind the all-time record held by Alex Brosque. Additionally, he assisted in the unforgettable 3-3 draw at Allianz Stadium.

R19 PREVIEW: Key insights for Round 19

“It’s fantastic because, you know, there’s no better way to become a club legend than to score against your biggest rivals,” said Thomas Sorensen, former Melbourne City goalkeeper and Danish football legend, on this week’s episode of A-Leagues Download.

“As a young player, he’ll aim for more consistency and to deliver that performance week in and week out.

“It’s evident his mentality is spot on. You need players who can rise to the occasion in crucial matches.”

WONDERKID WATCH: Exceptional debut for 16yo Aussie Beckham who trialled at Man Utd, Man City & Chelsea

Of Sapsford’s eight A-League goals, five have been scored in these high-stakes fixtures. Yet, he is more than just a player for the big occasions; he is a lethal finisher, having found the net solely from inside the penalty area.

The former Sydney FC player is experiencing the best season of his professional career, netting six goals in 15 matches – a remarkable feat for the 2024-25 season.

R18 TALKING POINTS: ‘Big risk’ pays off for Jets as young gun enters Socceroos frame

With a goal every 147.7 minutes, Zac is finding the back of the net more frequently than notable players like Macarthur Bulls captain Valere Germain, Wellington Phoenix legend Kosta Barbarouses, Sydney FC’s ex-Celtic striker Patryk Klimala, and Wanderers teammate Milanovic.

His six goals this season came from an expected goals (xG) figure of 5.85, placing him sixth in the Isuzu UTE A-League rankings.

Sapsford also ranks second for goals from counter-attacks (two) and is among the top ten for big chances converted (five).

Since making his debut in October 2022, he remains one of the brightest talents among players aged 23 and under, with only Noah Botic from Western United, Adelaide United’s Archie Goodwin and Luka Jovanovic, and Sydney FC’s Adrian Segecic having scored more frequently during this timeframe.

Notably, his goal-to-minute ratio stands at an impressive 171.3, surpassing former A-League star Nestory Irankunda, who now plays for Bayern Munich, and recent Portsmouth recruit Thomas Waddingham.

However, Sapsford’s contribution to the Wanderers extends beyond mere statistics. He plays a vital role in the team’s pressing game and works hard within a front three full of talent.

He is also shaping up to be crucial for the Wanderers’ ambitions in finals football.

“They will need more consistency from Zac Sapsford,” commented Vince Rugari from the Sydney Morning Herald during this week’s episode of Total A-Leagues.

“If he could replicate his performances against Sydney FC on a weekly basis, he would be in an excellent position.

“In AFL circles, you might call him an uphill skier; he thrives in big matches, which hints that there’s even more potential in him.”