Roar coach explains how missing out on Archie Goodwin opened the door to a ‘top-class’ mid-season find.

Since joining in February, Brisbane Roar forward Asumah Abubakar has quickly emerged as a key player to watch in the Isuzu UTE A-League as the regular season approaches its climax, displaying exceptional form.

Originally from Ghana, the 27-year-old Abubakar previously represented Portugal at Under-19 level. He transitioned to Brisbane from Grasshopper Club Zurich in mid-February, bringing with him nearly 100 appearances in the Swiss Super League from teams such as Grasshopper, FC Luzern, and FC Lugano before making his mark in the A-Leagues.

In his ninth appearance for Brisbane, Abubakar netted his fourth league goal during a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Adelaide United, who are vying for a top-six finish. His performance further solidified his status as one of the standout players since his arrival at the club.

MATCH REPORT: Adelaide’s finals hopes take a hit as Roar sensation shines in comeback draw

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE ISUZU UTE A-LEAGUE!

Following the match, Roar head coach Zadkovich was asked about Abubakar’s influence since joining the squad and expressed his wish that he could have had the former Portugal youth international from the start of the 2024-25 season.

DEEP DIVE: This young Aussie’s debut season has been so impressive he’s already secured a move to the UK
WHAT A JOURNEY: Aussie ‘Vardy story’ has crafted an A-Leagues star ‘nobody can contain’

Zadkovich disclosed that a previous attempt to sign ex-Newcastle Jets striker Archie Goodwin—who ultimately signed with Adelaide United and is currently tied for the Golden Boot with 13 goals—along with the January departure of Thomas Waddingham to Portsmouth, created an opportunity for Abubakar to join the squad and make an immediate impact.

“Transfers are always intriguing,” Zadkovich commented during an interview with Network 10.

“I recall bringing Adam Taggart to Perth, which was a solid move during the January transfer window, and he later won the Golden Boot the following year.

“I was in close contact with Archie Goodwin and had a verbal agreement for him to sign with Brisbane Roar at the season’s outset, but our contract offer of about $90,000 simply wasn’t enough to attract players to the club.

“This led us to develop a promising young talent in Thomas Waddingham, a brilliant young Queenslander who has now moved on to play in the Championship.”

“That left us with a bit of budget to find a player who could elevate our game, and that’s when we discovered Asumah through our recruitment framework and thorough research into the right personalities and profiles. Asumah is a fantastic addition.”

Abubakar’s latest goal was celebrated with a heartfelt pitchside hug with Zadkovich, a ritual he has maintained with each goal he has scored this season.

Following the match, Abubakar shared that celebrating with Zadkovich after each of his goals represents his appreciation for the head coach’s faith in him to showcase his skills in the Isuzu UTE A-League.

“I’m thankful to him for bringing me here to display my talents and capabilities in Australia,” he remarked.

“This is my way of expressing my gratitude to him, so I aim to celebrate every goal with him to show that I’m incredibly happy to be here.”

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE ISUZU UTE A-LEAGUE!

Having joined Brisbane for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, Abubakar hasn’t ruled out the possibility of extending his stay in Queensland.

“As it stands, I’m very content here, so if Brisbane offers something, I would gladly consider staying,” he said. “However, this is part of the sport; you have to assess where the best opportunity to play arises. I’m very open to that.”

Post-match, Abubakar participated in an interview with Network 10 commentator Teo Pellizzeri and Brisbane Roar legend Erik Paartalu, who expressed admiration for both Abubakar’s on-field performance and his comments about the Roar and Coach Zadkovich.

“He was exceptional,” Paartalu noted. “His interview reflected that too. You can truly see the type of player Ruben Zadkovich has brought on board.”

“When we talk about players who can make a difference or change a game, it’s evident that Brisbane Roar needed someone like him from the beginning of the season.

“His presence is galvanising his teammates… it’s all about progressing, and it’s incredibly positive for the other players to see someone who can finish the play.”