Craig Goodwin

The opening goal of Australia’s 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign against France belongs to Craig Goodwin — a perfectly struck volley that announced to the world that the Socceroos had arrived, and that the left foot of this Adelaide winger was among the most dangerous weapons in the tournament. Born in Adelaide and a one-club man at heart, Goodwin has spent the majority of his career at Adelaide United, with the exception of a broadening stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Wehda. A dynamic left-footed winger who can operate on either flank or as an attacking midfielder, he is renowned for exceptional delivery from set pieces, dangerous crossing, and a willingness to cut inside and shoot that keeps full-backs guessing from the first whistle to the last. His 25 caps and 6 goals represent a strong return for a wide player, and his continued excellence at A-League level ensures that the Socceroos can call upon a match-winner whose biggest moments have come on the biggest stages.

Career Statistics

Player Profile

That World Cup goal against France was the culmination of years of dedicated service to Australian football, a volley that crystallised everything Craig Goodwin is as a player — the timing, the technique, the temperament to deliver when the entire world is watching. His left foot remains one of the most dangerous weapons in the Socceroos arsenal, capable of producing pinpoint crosses that find foreheads in crowded penalty areas, curling free kicks that bend around walls, and powerful strikes from distance that goalkeepers can only watch.

At thirty-four, Goodwin continues to perform at a high level with Adelaide United, where his experience and quality make him one of the standout players in the A-League. His professionalism, fitness levels, and desire to represent his country remain undiminished, and the coaching staff value his ability to produce match-winning moments in both qualifying and tournament settings. While younger attackers are emerging, Goodwin’s experience and set-piece expertise make him a difficult player to leave out of any squad — the veteran whose left foot still carries the memory of a World Cup goal and the promise of more to come.

EC — Senior features writer, australiafootball.com