Waddingham scores comeback goal for Portsmouth after injury layoff

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 21:32 · Archive

Australian striker Thomas Waddingham scored his first goal in nearly two years for Portsmouth in their 2-1 win over Millwall on Saturday.

Thomas Waddingham scored his first goal in nearly two years for Portsmouth in Saturday's 2-1 win over Millwall. The Australian striker, 21, came off the bench in the 82nd minute and struck in the dying stages, the goal sending Portsmouth near to the playoff zone.

Waddingham scored after the ball ricocheted off his shin following Millwall captain Jake Cooper's attempted clearance in the box. The goal appeared fortuitous, but Waddingham insisted it was intentional. 'I've heard a lot of people say I didn't mean it, so I definitely meant it!' he said. 'The defender's obviously tried to clear it, and I've just put my foot in front -- and luckily enough, it went in the back of the net.'

The Australia Under-23 prospect had been absent since August, sidelined by an ankle injury requiring surgery. He had also suffered from a persistent thigh problem during the 2025-26 season. Saturday's match was only his 14th appearance for Portsmouth, with most coming as a substitute. He described the return to action as emotionally significant, saying 'It's been tough, definitely, I think it's been six injuries, including two surgeries.'

How it is being reported

• 'I meant it': injury-hit Aussie's 'lucky' comeback goalInjury-plagued Aussie striker Thomas Waddingham has made a fairytale return, scoring his first goal for Championship side Portsmouth in nearly two yearsThe West Australian · 24 Oct, 20:56
• 'I meant it': injury-hit Aussie's 'lucky' comeback goalInjury-plagued Aussie striker Thomas Waddingham has made a fairytale return, scoring his first goal for Championship side Portsmouth in nearly two yearsPerth Now · 24 Oct, 20:56

In this story: Thomas Waddingham · Portsmouth · Millwall · Jake Cooper · Brisbane Roar · Australia

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