Afghanistan women can return to competition after eight-year hiatus
Fifa has approved the return of Afghanistan's women's football team to international competition after an eight-year hiatus. This decision follows the Taliban's restrictions on women's rights, which had previously banned women's sports. Former captain Khalida Popal emphasized the team's role as a symbol of resilience and hope for Afghan women.
- ▪Afghanistan women's football team has not played a competitive international match since December 2018.
- ▪The Taliban's return to power in 2021 led to a ban on women's sports, forcing many players to seek asylum.
- ▪Fifa's recent amendment allows the registration of teams under exceptional circumstances, enabling Afghan players to compete internationally.
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Afghanistan women can return to competitionImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Afghan Women United played Chad, Tunisia and Libya in Morocco in October and November 2025ByElizabeth BotcherbyBBC Sport journalistPublished29 April 2026Afghanistan women will become a "symbol of resilience" after Fifa approved their return to international competition, says former captain Khalida Popal.Afghanistan have not played a competitive international since December 2018.The Taliban's return to power in 2021 triggered restrictions on women's rights, including a ban on women's sports which forced many players to seek asylum overseas.Fifa's governance regulations previously prevented it from officially recognising a team unless they were recognised by their member association, in this case the…
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