The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word ASPIRED
A
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "had a goal" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case had a goal = aspired.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ASPIRED mean?
ASPIRED verb- To have a strong desire or ambition to achieve something.
- To go as high as, to reach the top of (something).
- To move upward; to be very tall.