Just two years ago, Kenny Athiu was still lining up for Victorian National Premier League side Heidelberg United. On Thursday morning (AEST), the 27-year-old made his international debut for South Sudan.
After joining Melbourne Victory in October 2017, Athiu has been turning heads in pre-season, scoring three goals over the past month to successfully attract his birth country's attention.
Called up for the first time by South Sudan, the striker made his debut on Thursday after coming on in the 54th against Equatorial Guinea in World Cup qualifying.
With his nation trailling 1-0 on home soil at the time he was introduced, Athiu would play his part as South Sudan salvaged a draw following an own goal in the 75th minute.