Afghanistan women's football is set to make a long-awaited return to international competition
The decision marks a major moment not just for Afghan footballers, but for global sport, as it introduces a new pathway for athletes affected by political restrictions and conflict.
Here's a clear explainer of what changed, why it matters, and what happens next.
Why Afghanistan women stopped playing international football
Afghanistan women last played an official international match in December 2018.
Their absence from global football began after the Taliban returned to power in 2021, leading to strict restrictions on women's rights, including a ban on women participating in sports.
As a result, many Afghan women footballers fled the country and sought asylum across the world, including in Australia, Europe, the United
States, and parts of the Middle East.
Without recognition from the Afghanistan Football Federation, FIFA rules previously prevented these players from representing their country internationally - even though they continued training and competing informally abroad.
What rule did FIFA change?
The breakthrough came after FIFA approved an amendment to its Governance Regulations during a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver on April 28, 2026.
Under the new rule:
- FIFA can approve the registration of a national or representative team under "exceptional circumstances"
- This applies when players cannot represent their country due to factors beyond their control
- The move allows Afghan women to compete in official FIFA-recognised matches
- The decision was made in coordination with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the reform as a major step toward protecting access to sport.
"This is a powerful and unprecedented step in world sport. FIFA has listened to these players as part of its responsibility to protect the right of every girl and woman to play football and to represent who they are. "
What is Afghan Women United?
The decision builds on the creation of Afghan Women United - a refugee team supported by FIFA.
This squad was formed in May 2025 as part of a pilot programme aimed at giving displaced Afghan players structured playing opportunities.
Key details about Afghan Women United:
- The team consists of Afghan players living outside Afghanistan
- Many were previously contracted to the national team before 2021
- They played friendly matches in Morocco in late 2025
- Their first victory came against Libya during the FIFA United Women's Series
- More than 80 Afghan women footballers are currently part of the global diaspora
These matches helped demonstrate that Afghan women remained ready and capable of competing internationally.
When will Afghanistan women return to action?
Afghanistan women are expected to return to international football as early as June 2026.
Upcoming steps include:
- Regional selection camps in England and Australia
- A major training camp scheduled in New Zealand from June 1-9
- Potential friendly matches, including a fixture against the Cook Islands
While Afghanistan will not be eligible to qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup, they are expected to participate in qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.
Why this decision is considered historic
This reform is widely seen as unprecedented because it allows athletes to represent their country even when their national federation cannot formally support them.
Former Afghanistan captain Khalida Popal described the decision as deeply symbolic.
"Our team has always been known as an activist team. But this opportunity, with the right support from FIFA, will be the time for us to also show some skills and develop the youth talent in the diaspora. "
She also highlighted the emotional significance of representing Afghan women still living under restrictions.
"If we can still be the voice for them to send out hope messages and show them our support that you are not forgotten, then we will continue to use our platform. "
What support will FIFA provide?
FIFA has committed to providing full operational, financial, and technical support to ensure the team can compete safely and professionally.
This includes:
- Administrative support for team registration
- Financial and logistical backing
- Safeguarding measures for player safety
- Coaching and performance infrastructure
- Support programmes lasting up to two years
The aim is to create a stable and sustainable pathway for Afghan women to remain active in international football.
What this means beyond football
The return of Afghanistan women's football carries significance beyond sport.
It represents:
- A stand for inclusion and equal access to sport
- A recognition of displaced athletes' rights
- A global precedent for governing bodies to adapt rules during crises
- A message of resilience for women facing restrictions worldwide
Former Afghan captain Khalida Popal described the players as becoming a symbol of resilience - not only for sport but for hope and identity.
As Afghanistan women prepare to return to international competition, their comeback is set to become one of the most meaningful stories in global sport.
