Soccer in Australia is experiencing a period of exciting growth. The country is now producing exciting talent (thanks to the A and W-League). These players are making their mark both domestically and on the international stage.
We are half past the halfway mark of 2025, and Australia has produced a fresh crop of rising prodigies and established players who are making their mark in various leagues across the world (Europe and Asia in particular). Both the Socceroos and Matildas have made their mark in numerous domestic and international competitions.
How did the Socceroos make their mark in the absence of the A-League?
Instead of going straight to Japan after the A-League, Australian players are earning well-earned transfers to European Leagues and Major League Soccer as well. Long ago, when Australia had no official top division, players began their careers in the National Soccer League (NSL) and then went on to join overseas leagues, spanning Argentina, Chile, Japan, the Republic of Korea, China, and Europe.
There was a time when Harry Kewell, Brett Emerton, Mark Viduka, Paul Okon, Stephen Laybutt, Vince Grella, Mark Schwarzer, Mark Bosnich, Zeljko Kalac, David Zdrilic, Michael Petkovic, Jason Culina, and Mark Bresciano, among many others, made their mark abroad.
They all started from the NSL and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). They worked hard, endured hardships, and persevered through thick and thin to reach their desired goals.
However, Australia did lose some players to other national teams (Croatia in particular). The following players switched their allegiance to other countries despite being born and/or raised in Australia:
● Anthony Seric (Croatia).
● Buddy Farah (Lebanon).
● Craig Johnston (England).
● Ersan Gulum (Turkey).
● Georgios Samaras (Greece).
● Graeme Rutjes (The Netherlands).
● Joey Didulica (Croatia).
● Josip Simunic (Croatia).
● Michael Reda (Lebanon).
Then again, the Socceroos managed to survive and hold on. The formation of the A-League in 2005 helped Australia have a top division league of its own. This provided players a platform for growth and stability. Veterans found a decent league at home to play in and eventually retire.
The players to look out for this year – Australia’s best and brightest
The current year is a pivotal one for Australian soccer players. Ranging from rock-solid goalkeepers and defenders to tactful midfielders and electrifying forwards, Australia’s talent pool keeps getting better.
Nestory Irankunda
Tanzania-born Nestory Irankunda was signed by Bayern Munich in 2024, following his emergence in the Australian domestic football scene. English and Italian clubs vied for his signature until the German powerhouse signed him.
The player has established himself as the hottest prospect in the Hyundai A-League in a long time. A series of last-minute game-winning goals marked his time at Adelaide United. He is blessed with a quick pace and a lethal right foot. He is currently on loan at EFL Championship side Watford.
Nestory Irankunda uses the Nike Mercurial Vapor and Nike Phantom GX cleats. Recently, he acquired a pair of limited-edition Nike Mercurial Vapour 16 Elite FG Cosmic Speed Chapter 2.
James Overy
Born in Perth, James Overy formerly played for hometown side Perth Glory before signing with Manchester United in September. However, his only professional game was at the age of 15 in a friendly against West Ham United. He is currently training with the under-18 side of the Mancunian giants.
He has appeared for the youth teams of Scotland. He left Australia before the age of 18 because he held a British passport. Overy can earn a spot in Man United’s first team for their preseason games. He could also earn a call-up to the Australian national team soon. Adidas cleats are his preferred soccer boots.
Archie Goodwin
Archie Goodwin made headlines in his career’s early days by becoming the youngest ever player for Newcastle Jets. He also became the youngest goalscorer, scoring his first goal in a key match against Melbourne City FC.
He has demonstrated outstanding resilience in his nascent career despite suffering multiple injuries (especially broken bones in both his feet). The injuries hampered his playing time. Now that he has fully recovered, his tally for last season was 13 goals. Archie Goodwin wears Nike Mercurial Vapor cleats.
Thomas Waddingham
Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday once vied for the signature of Thomas Waddingham. He was also linked to Tottenham Hotspur during his playing days. The player scored 15 goals in 40 appearances for the Brisbane Roar.
Fans liken Thomas Waddingham to former Socceroo Mark Viduka due to his form at Brisbane Roar. He is currently playing at Portsmouth. The cleats he wears are the Nike Mercurial Vapor, commonly found across multiple Nike outlets.
Mohamed Toure
A youth product of Adelaide United, Mohamed Toure is making waves in the Danish Superliga. He struggled to settle in France during his days with Reims and Paris FC. Currently, he is playing nicely at Randers.
Last season, he scored seven goals in 28 appearances, and his club is vying for a place in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League. Mohamed Toure has been spotted wearing Adidas Copa Pure cleats.
How TX Football can overtake overseas Brands in Australia’s football market in the future
TX Football is an emerging brand in Australia’s football market. However, it is only providing apparel and equipment at the grassroots level. When it comes to professional equipment, overseas brands (Nike, Adidas, Under Armour) have established a robust presence.
Most of the kits of A-League and W-League teams are produced and supplied by overseas brands. This is where TX Football must influence a multi-level strategy. It should create a robust and authentic local identity.
It is sponsoring and working with grassroots clubs and local leagues. TX Football has demonstrated an honest commitment to football in Australia. It has been instrumental in making a sense of community and loyalty. This can help it challenge foreign brands in the Australian market.
The company has invested considerably in innovation and product customization. It has made significant efforts to match its products, list footballs and accessories according to the country’s climate, playing conditions, and terrain.
Another thing the company can do is invest in a direct-to-consumer eCommerce platform. This can be complemented with a robust social media presence, allowing TX Football to connect with customers and fans directly. This helps create a community, and traditional retail channels dominated by foreign brands can be overcome with ease.
In the end, the company should try securing key endorsements and partnerships from well-known Australian players and coaches. That will help TX Football earn both credibility and visibility. This will allow the brand challenge overseas competitors dominating the Australian market.
Conclusion
Australian soccer experienced a challenging period between 2010 and 2018. Most of the players were heading to China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, with only a handful playing in Europe. Now, with Australians also considering MLS of the United States as a league for further development, their chances of playing in worthwhile European divisions have thus increased.