Move over Messi, Ronaldo, Bellingham, Salah, Haaland, and Mbappé!
They may be the names young football fans may immediately picture when thinking of the game’s biggest stars, but Australia has an equally compelling football story ready to be discovered.
The Goals That Changed Australia—Stories from the biggest stage on earth, written by sports journalist David Weiner, brings that story to life for a new generation, highlighting the moments, players, and events that have shaped Australian football’s legacy.
It is the first time Australia’s real-life football story, Matildas and Socceroos, has been brought together and told in one vibrant and compelling narrative.
From iconic moments like John Aloisi’s unforgettable penalty that secured the Socceroos’ place in the 2006 World Cup to Cortnee Vine’s nerve-wracking penalty that became a defining moment for the Matildas in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, The Goals That Changed Australia will inspire the next generation of fans, create new heroes and encourage those who want to explore the rich tapestry of Australia’s football history.
These milestones, among many others, testify to the resolve, spirit, pride, and passion that define Australia’s national football teams.
For young readers from upper primary, the book offers a dynamic and accessible lens through which they can experience the highs and lows of their national heroes, with each chapter evoking the excitement, heartache, and spirit of the green and gold.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan, new to the game, or a parent looking for something to read with your kids, The Goals That Changed Australia celebrates Australia’s football heritage. This story transcends gender and culture and connects generations.
With an unbroken record of World Cup appearances for both the Matildas and Socceroos, it is a powerful reminder of Australia’s right to be considered significant players in this biggest of sporting global arenas and a call to the next generation to cheer for our Matildas and Socceroos with the same energy they bring to international stars.
It is available from us, all good bookstores, and usual online outlets for $29.99 (paperback) or as an e-book.