To say that Daniel Arzani played a major role in Macarthur FC’s 2-0 victory over Adelaide United at Campbelltown Stadium yesterday would be the understatement of the week.
He scored the first goal in the 27th minute and laid on the second one on a platter for Lachie Rose in the second half.
Arzani should have had a second goal a few minutes later from a free kick thunderbolt that beat everybody except the woodwork.
And if these were his only contributions the 23 year old would still be man of the match for most people who watched the game at the ground or on TV.
The thing that stands out with Arzani is his audacity when he gets the ball.
Even surrounded by several defenders he has no fear, and takes them on, while at the same time scoping the attacking opportunities for his side.
For the Rose goal, Arzani’s run was pure magic, and I confess to comparisons with Diego Maradona, one of the greatest footballers of all time.
He beat defenders on the sideline, before reaching the byline and just kept going toward the goal before crossing it for Rose to tap in.
Now I am not saying Arzani is the new Maradona, just that his audacious style does resemble the wizard from Argentina.
Arzani has beautiful balance, incredible acceleration and speed – attributes that explain his confidence, why he backs himself every time he goes forward with the ball.
Four years ago he was the next big thing in Australian soccer, but after cameo roles in the 2018 World Cup nothing really went right for him.
Now, with Campbelltown Stadium as his new home, Daniel Arzani looks like he’s starting all over again.
Some would say he’s just getting started and the past four year was him paying his dues.
Either way, what a master stroke from Macarthur FC to sign a player who will bring a lot of people through the turnstiles.
He really is worth the price of admission if he can perform like he did yesterday in every match.
His coach, Dwight Yorke, said after yesterday’s match that there is much more improvement in Arzani.
“I’ve seen a bit of everything from him today,’’ Yorke said.
“He’s getting game time now, he’s getting the chance to show what he’s capable of.
“Today was a step in the right direction for him, but I hope there’s more to come from him.’’
The Bulls are off to Melbourne and AAMI Park to take on last year’s premiers, Western United, this Friday night in round three of the A-League.
Macarthur FC will return home on Saturday, October 29 with a blockbuster when they host Sydney FC at Campbelltown Stadium with a 7.45pm kick off.
