Afghan Women's Refugee Team Makes History, Pushes for Official Recognition
A group of Afghan women, currently refugees, have formed a football team aiming to represent their home country. Despite not being officially recognized by the Afghan Football Federation, they recently made their international debut in Dubai, with FIFA's support. The players, mentored by former national team captain Khalida Popal, prefer to be known as Afghanistan's national football team rather than a 'refugee' team.
The team, not officially recognized by the Afghan Football Federation, made history in October 2025 by participating in an international football tournament organized by FIFA in Dubai. FIFA, adhering to its gender equality statutes, has supported the team despite the Afghan Football Federation's ban on women's sports. Five young women were selected for the squad, falling short of their ultimate goal of representing Afghanistan officially in football.
Narges Mayeli, who did not make the squad, remains undeterred. Her family, rescued from Afghanistan, attributes their survival to soccer. FIFA president Gianni Infantino hailed the team's creation as a 'landmark' moment. Najma Arefi, a defender, uses her platform as a footballer to advocate for human rights, aspiring to become a lawyer in the field.
The Afghan women's refugee football team continues to push for official recognition, with their next football match scheduled in Dubai this month. Despite setbacks, the players remain committed to representing Afghanistan and using their platform to advocate for human rights.
