Doncaster, England — Five young Afghan women anxiously awaited a call that would change their lives. They had been selected by FIFA for the Afghan’s Women Soccer refugee squad. This marks a significant moment for players who fled Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in 2021.
The exiled athletes have campaigned for the right to play internationally ever since. Many were evacuated to countries including England, Australia, the United States, and Portugal. Goalkeeper Elaha Safdari shared her joy, saying she could not wait to share the news with her family. Her parents remain in Afghanistan due to health reasons.
The 23-player squad will participate in a friendly tournament in Dubai this month. They are set to face Chad, Libya, and the United Arab Emirates, after a training camp organized by FIFA. While this is an unprecedented step, the team is officially recognized as a refugee squad, not Afghanistan’s national women’s team.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the formation of the team a “landmark” moment. However, players continue to push for recognition as the official Afghan national team. Defender Narges Mayeli expressed gratitude but emphasized their ultimate goal remains full national recognition.
The journey of the players highlights the ongoing challenges of Afghan’s Women Soccer under Taliban rule. Many athletes left behind jerseys, medals, and memories when fleeing Afghanistan. Football has been a lifeline, helping them cope with displacement and uncertainty.
Former Afghan captain Khalida Popal, now based in Denmark, mentors the exiled players. She stresses that soccer is not just a sport but a platform for human rights advocacy. Popal hopes FIFA’s refugee initiative is just the beginning for the players to regain their international voice.
The team will reunite in Dubai, ready to play despite the ongoing struggle for official recognition. Safdari summed up their mission: “It’s just football, let us play. Let us represent our country.”
This step signals hope for Afghan’s Women Soccer, offering players a platform to showcase talent while continuing the fight for equality and recognition.
In other news also read about Afghan Students in Pakistan Seen Chanting “Jai Hind” After Asia Cup Clash
