The Afghanistan women's soccer team will return to international competition, after a major decision from FIFA.
Soccer's global governing body approved a rule change allowing Afghan women players — most of whom live in exile — to represent their country in official matches without approval from the Taliban-controlled federation.
Since the Taliban regained power in 2021, women have been banned from participating in sports in Afghanistan. This ban forced many players to flee, and halted the national team — until now.
FIFA’s ruling centers on Afghan Women United, a group made up of players based across Europe, Australia, and the Middle East. The team was formed after the national program was dismantled. Since then, it has been working toward official recognition.
“This is a powerful and unprecedented step in world sport,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said. “By enabling Afghan women to compete for their country in official matches, we are turning principles into action.”
The rule allows the team to compete internationally for Afghanistan, even without backing from the country’s governing body. This is a rare exception reflecting the circumstances surrounding the program.
“We are tired of getting called refugee,” player Zainab Mozaffari told reporters, underscoring what the FIFA recognition means both on and off the field.
Vice captain Fatima Yousufi said the opportunity to return is something she has been waiting for.
“To wear the Afghanistan jersey again and hear the anthem… it feels like we’ve gained back something we lost,” she said.
What's Next for the Afghanistan Women's Soccer Team
The Afghanistan women’s soccer team has not played an official match since before its 2021 displacement. However, FIFA has supported the team via selection camps and development programs.
While the group is not eligible to enter all major competitions immediately, it is expected to begin playing during upcoming international windows.
“It’s just amazing to see the team now has a future,” Yousufi said. “Maybe not this World Cup, but maybe the next one.”
