From NPL SA to the international stage: West Adelaide's Ali Rayez Muradi debuts for world No. 169

What a memorable week it has been for West Adelaide defender Ali Rayez Muradi, who made his international debut for Afghanistan.

From NPL SA to the international arena, Ali took another significant step in his football journey as Afghanistan made a winning start against hosts the Maldives at the Diamond Jubilee International - a four-nation tournament also involving Pakistan and Bangladesh.

THE BAKER STORY: He hasn't played in the A-League. Indonesia have called up this highly-rated NPL teen anyway

Ali debuted in the 1-0 victory for the world number 169 and shared the occasion with fellow Australia-based Afghan international and Gold Coast Knights star Rahmat Akbari.

It was a proud moment for Ali, who has gone from South Australia's NPL SA to representing his country on the international stage.

Ali joined West Adelaide ahead of the 2026 season after arriving from Para Hills Knights and has quickly become a regular part of the club's setup, making 10 appearances so far this campaign.

His international call-up is another reminder of the quality spread throughout Australia's state league system, with the West Adelaide defender now adding senior international football to his growing resume.