Australian · Adelaide, South Australia · Born 5 February 1976Australian striker and national hero who scored the penalty that sent Australia to their first World Cup in 32 years with a memorable celebration.
John Joseph Aloisi was born in Adelaide, South Australia on 5 February 1976. A mobile, energetic striker with a cool head in front of goal, Aloisi's defining moment came on 16 November 2005 when he stepped up to score the decisive penalty in the shootout against Uruguay that sent Australia to the 2006 World Cup — their first World Cup qualification for 32 years. His subsequent sprint around the stadium in euphoric celebration became one of Australian sport's most iconic images. He came through Sporting Kansas City before moves to Portsmouth, Deportivo La Coruña, Alaves, Osasuna and Besiktas. For Australia he earned 55 caps and scored 27 goals, and was an important part of the team around the golden era of the 2006 World Cup qualification and tournament itself. He later managed Melbourne City and Brisbane Roar.
Scoring the decisive penalty that sent Australia to the 2006 World Cup
He scored the decisive penalty against Uruguay in November 2005 that sent Australia to the World Cup for the first time in 32 years, and his joyous sprint celebrating the moment became one of Australian sport's most iconic images.
Did You Know?Lasting Impact
Hero of Australian football for his World Cup qualification penalty
Career Honours
- WC 2006 Qualification
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AIS | 1995–1996 | — | 9 | #9 |
| Coventry City | 2001–2004 | 78 | 8 | #9 |
| Portsmouth | 2007–2008 | 68 | 6 | #9 |
| Adelaide City | 1993–1995 | 0 | 0 | — |
| Cremonese | 1997–1999 | 55 | 12 | — |
| Brescia | 1999–2001 | 0 | 0 | — |
| Alaves | 2004–2005 | 28 | 9 | — |
| Osasuna | 2007–2008 | 25 | 3 | — |
| Sydney FC | 2008–2014 | 124 | 42 | — |
 Australia | — | 55 | 27 | — |
Australian Athletes