Mark Bresciano

Bresciano was one of Australia's most talented footballers and had a renowned eye for goal. He usually played his football on the left side of midfield but could also play as a forward, behind the strikers, and in a central or right midfield role. Bresciano was a versatile player who often assisted in both attack and defence and was also a set-piece specialist. Bresciano was also popular for his "Spartacus" goal celebration, that involves the player stopping in the position from where he shot from, clenching his fists by his side and raising his chin. He stands still, usually until mobbed by his teammates coming to celebrate the goal.

Club

International

Scores and results list Australia's goal tally first.

Name

Bresciano's correct first name is Mark and not, as is often reported, "Marco". Interviewed for the TV documentary The Away Game, he said "In Australia, it's Marco. In Italy, it's Mark. Work that one out. My birth certificate says Mark. But I'm named after my grandfather Marco. I like Marco but not Mark-O. I prefer Mark".

Family

Bresciano's father is Italian (from Viggiano, Basilicata) and his mother Croatian (from Antonci, in Istria). His younger brother Robert currently plays for Fawkner Blues in the Victorian Premier League. He married his childhood sweetheart Renée Capitanio in May 2006 in Heidelberg, Melbourne, after proposing to her at the Romeo and Juliet House in Verona. In February 2007, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Alessia and in May 2009, the couple welcomed their second child, a daughter named Montana. In 2011, they welcomed a third boy, named Benjamin.

Football Australia

From October 2019 to April 2024, Bresciano was on the board of Football Australia, the governing body for the sport in Australia. In April 2024, he resigned from the board whilst still remaining on the Football Development Committee. In January 2024, it was reported that Bresciano was part of a consortium to purchase Perth Glory with Pelligra Group. The sale of the club to Pelligra Group was confirmed on 16 February 2024, however Bresciano's involvement is yet to be determined as he remained on the Football Australia board.

Australia

FIFA Confederations Cup: 3rd place, 2001 AFC Asian Cup: 2015; runner-up, 2011 OFC Nations Cup: 2004 Australia U20

OFC U-19 Men's Championship: 1998