Afghanistan’s women footballers are set to return to international competition following approval from FIFA, marking a significant development after several years of absence from the global stage. Former national team captain Khalida Popal has described the players as becoming a “symbol of resistance” in light of their renewed opportunity to compete internationally.
The Afghanistan women’s national team has not played an official international match since December 2018. Following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, restrictions were imposed on women’s participation in sport, leading many players to leave the country and seek asylum abroad.
Under previous FIFA regulations, a national team required recognition from its respective football federation to participate in international competitions. However, this framework has now been amended following a FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver. The revised rule allows FIFA, in “exceptional circumstances” and where players are beyond their control, to register national or representative teams directly for international competition.
This policy change enables Afghan women footballers to represent their country officially in international fixtures despite the absence of a functioning domestic women’s programme.
Key developments
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Last international match | December 2018 |
| Domestic restrictions | Imposed in 2021 following political change |
| Estimated players abroad | Around 80 |
| Refugee team formation | May 2025 (“Afghan Women United”) |
| Recent competition | FIFA United Women’s Series 2025 |
| Notable result | First victory vs Libya (November 2025) |
| Upcoming training camp | June (New Zealand) |
| Player selection | England and Australia |
| Future eligibility | 2028 Olympic qualifiers |
Following sustained efforts by displaced players, FIFA established the “Afghan Women United” refugee team in May 2025. This initiative provided a structured platform for Afghan women footballers residing abroad and formed the basis for their return to competitive international football.
In 2025, the team participated in the FIFA United Women’s Series, playing three matches and securing a win against Libya in November, marking their first recorded victory in the competition.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that the organisation is proud of the progress made through the Afghan Women United initiative and intends to support the team’s progression to the next stage of international participation.
Khalida Popal told Reuters that the team has historically been associated with the struggle for rights, and that FIFA’s support now provides an opportunity for players to demonstrate their sporting ability and develop emerging talent among the diaspora. She also acknowledged the challenges faced by women remaining inside Afghanistan, noting that participation remains difficult for them.
According to FIFA’s plan, approximately 80 Afghan women footballers are currently based in countries including Australia, several European nations, the United States, and across the Middle East. Selection activities are expected to take place in England and Australia ahead of a training camp scheduled in New Zealand in June. The team is also expected to begin preparations for future international competitions, including qualification pathways for the 2028 Olympic Games.
