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This former refugee is named after a folk hero and now he's bringing magic to NPL SA
The goal and the celebration. Aladin Irabona’s moment of magic not only ended an Adelaide Comets drought, it was another reminder of his quality.
Adelaide Comets needed a moment. Only 24 hours earlier, they parted ways with head coach Tom Overall. Why? Eight consecutive matches without a win to begin 2026.
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Their captain seized that moment. Irabona bent it like Beckham and his free-kick ended up in the back of the net. The celebration was just as good.
And breathe. After seven losses and a draw - Adelaide Comets finally had a win and found themselves off the foot of the table.
The break-through win placed the spotlight firmly on their skipper.
When the Comets needed a hero, Irabona stood up.
But who is he?
He has been a name synonymous with South Australian football in recent years. From the likes of Croydon and Adelaide City, to now the Comets.
Irabona has worked his way up in SA, let alone Australia.
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The 26-year-old, who also spent time with Adelaide United’s youth team, moved to Australia with his mother and older brother Arsene in 2005.
His mother fled war-torn Burundi and gave the family a new life in Australia via a Tanzanian refugee camp.
Irabona’s name has always stood out.
Aladin. Yes, he is named after Aladdin - the Arabian folk hero from the popular tale, which was also made famous by the popular Disney movie.
Speaking to Adelaide Now previously, Irabona discussed the inspiration behind his name, having often been asked about it while growing up in South Australia.
He said: “They say ‘where’s your magic carpet?’
“My mum had just read the story of Aladdin and named me after that.”
Irabona certainly had the magic touch on Friday night.
