FIFA clears Afghan Women Team return to International Football

FIFA has approved the return of the Afghanistan women’s national football team to international competition. This will be their first opportunity to play in official events in five years.

The team has not competed since 2021, when the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan and imposed restrictions that affected women’s participation in sport. Many players were forced to leave the country or stop playing.

Now, with FIFA’s decision, Afghan women footballers will once again have the chance to compete on the international stage.

Former captain Khalida Popal described the team as more than just a football side:

“Our team has always been known as an activist team. But this opportunity… will be the time for us to also show some skills and develop the youth talent in the diaspora.”

She also spoke about the wider meaning behind their return:

“The team will be a symbol of resilience… if we can still be the voice for them… and show them our support that you are not forgotten, then we will continue to use our platform.”

Many of the players are now based outside Afghanistan, with a large number living in Australia. Selection camps are being held internationally as the squad prepares for its return.

The team is expected to play again in June, although opponents and venues have not yet been confirmed.

While they will not be eligible for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, they could still take part in qualification for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

This return gives Afghan women a chance to be seen, to play again, and to represent others who cannot.