Afghanistan’s women footballers have been granted approval to return to international competition following a prolonged absence, a development described by former national team captain Khalida Popal as a significant step for the players involved. The decision marks the end of a period during which the team had not participated in official international matches.
The Afghanistan women’s national team last played an international fixture in December 2018. Following the political changes in the country in 2021, restrictions were imposed on women’s participation in sport. As a consequence, several players left Afghanistan and sought political asylum abroad, continuing their careers in different countries.
Under previous regulations, international football recognition required formal acknowledgement of a national football federation. However, at a recent FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver, amendments were approved to existing eligibility rules. The revised framework allows FIFA, under “exceptional circumstances” and where players are affected by factors beyond their control, to register and facilitate participation of national or representative teams even in the absence of standard federation recognition processes. This change enables Afghan women footballers to represent their country officially in international fixtures.
Khalida Popal told Reuters: “Our team has always been known for its struggle for rights. However, with this support from FIFA, we now have the opportunity to demonstrate our abilities and develop young talent among those in the diaspora.”
She further stated: “I know the task will be difficult because it is extremely hard for women inside Afghanistan to be part of this. But if we can be their voice, deliver messages of hope and show that we have not forgotten them, then this platform will have meaning.”
In May 2025, FIFA established a refugee team under the name “Afghan Women United”, composed primarily of players who had left the country. This initiative formed the basis for their reintegration into international football structures. In November 2025, the team participated in the FIFA Unity Women’s Series, where they recorded their first victory against Libya.
Although the team will not take part in the 2027 Women’s World Cup, they are expected to be eligible for the qualification pathway for the 2028 Olympic Games. Their return to competitive action is scheduled to begin as early as June.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “We are proud of the beautiful journey of Afghan Women United. Through this initiative, we aim to take them to the next step.”
At present, approximately 80 Afghan women footballers are based across Australia, Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. FIFA is planning selection activities in England and Australia ahead of a training camp scheduled to be held in New Zealand in June.
Key developments timeline
| Year/Date | Development |
|---|---|
| December 2018 | Afghanistan women’s team last international match |
| 2021 | Restrictions imposed on women’s sport following political changes |
| May 2025 | Formation of “Afghan Women United” refugee team by FIFA |
| November 2025 | First win achieved against Libya in FIFA Unity Women’s Series |
| June (planned) | Return to training camp and competitive preparation |
| 2028 | Eligibility for Olympic qualification pathway |
The approval represents a structural change in how international football governance may accommodate teams affected by exceptional political and social circumstances, allowing Afghan women footballers to resume international representation under FIFA’s revised framework.