Vancouver: FIFA has approved the return of Afghanistan’s women’s football team to international competition, a move former captain Khalida Popal says will make them a ‘symbol of resilience.’
The team has not played a competitive international match since December 2018. Following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, sweeping restrictions on women’s rights, including a ban on women’s sports, forced many players to flee the country and seek asylum abroad.
Previously, FIFA regulations required teams to be recognised by their national federation, in this case, the Afghanistan Football Federation, before being allowed to compete.
FIFA and AFC enable Afghan women to represent their country in official matches through landmark governance reform:
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) April 29, 2026
However, a rule change approved during a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver now allows the organisation to register national or representative teams under ‘exceptional circumstances,’ ensuring players are not excluded due to factors beyond their control.
This amendment enables Afghan women footballers to represent their country in official matches with full international recognition. Popal remarked that the team has long been known for activism, but this opportunity also allows players to demonstrate their sporting ability and support the development of young talent within the Afghan diaspora.
The former captain acknowledged that participation remains difficult for women still inside Afghanistan but stressed the importance of continuing to amplify their voices and offer hope.
Afghan Women United
The decision follows the creation of Afghan Women United, a refugee team backed by FIFA as part of a one-year pilot launched in May 2025 after years of advocacy by displaced players.
While Afghanistan will not be eligible to compete in qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the team could take part in qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games and is expected to return to action in June.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that the organisation is proud of the progress made through Afghan Women United and hopes the initiative will support similar situations where teams cannot be formally registered by their national associations.
Currently, more than 80 Afghan female footballers are based across Australia, Europe, the United States and the Middle East, including many of the 25 players who were under contract before 2021.
FIFA has organised regional selection camps in England and Australia, with a training camp scheduled in New Zealand in June. Afghan Women United have already competed in three matches in 2025 as part of the FIFA Women’s Series, recording their first victory against Libya in November.
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