Afghan Women Footballers Hail Landmark FIFA Decision Allowing Official Competition
Afghanistan’s women footballers have described a recent FIFA rule change allowing them to compete in official international matches as a “historical moment” and a major victory for human rights.
Former Afghanistan women’s national team captain, Khalida Popal, said the decision marks the culmination of a long struggle for recognition and inclusion in global football.
Speaking from Copenhagen on Thursday, Popal said she imagined young Afghan girls waking up with renewed hope, adding that the right to play football represents a basic human right.
The FIFA amendment now allows Afghanistan’s women’s football team to be officially recognised and eligible to participate in international competitions, including qualification pathways for future Women’s World Cup and Olympic tournaments.
The team, originally founded in 2007 in Kabul by Popal and other players, was forced into exile after the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Reports indicate that about 100 players and their families were evacuated to Melbourne, Australia, while others relocated to Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Under Taliban rule, women in Afghanistan are barred from participating in sports, with even informal exercise groups reportedly shut down.
In response to the restrictions, a refugee-based Afghan women’s team was formed across Europe and Australia, making its first international appearance at the FIFA Unites: Women’s Series in Morocco last year.
Previously, FIFA regulations prevented official recognition of the team due to requirements for approval from the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan Football Federation. However, the new policy allows recognition through an agreement between FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation, particularly in exceptional circumstances.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the development as a “powerful and unprecedented step in world sport,” adding that the decision reflects FIFA’s responsibility to protect the right of every girl and woman to play football.
Popal said the ruling opens opportunities to identify talent within the Afghan diaspora, with trials expected to begin soon ahead of possible matches in June. Although the team will not be eligible for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, it is expected to begin building toward future tournaments.
She added that the decision ensures that no other displaced team in similar circumstances would have to endure the same struggles faced by Afghan women footballers.
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