Monday, 25 May 2026
Afghan women's refugee team to make debut in UAE tournament
DUBAI – The newly formed Afghan women's refugee team is set to make its international debut next month, competing in a four-team friendly tournament in the United Arab Emirates, Reuters reported.
The "FIFA Unites: Women's Series" will take place in Dubai from October 23-29, featuring the Afghan squad alongside the national teams of the UAE, Chad, and Libya.
The creation of the team follows the Taliban's 2021 ban on women's sports in Afghanistan, which forced many players to flee the country to escape persecution. Most of the 25 women who were under contract with the Afghan national team before the Taliban takeover now reside in Australia.
FIFA has supported the new team by holding talent identification camps worldwide to select the 23 players for the squad.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the significance of the event, stating, "Ensuring that all women have access to football is a priority for FIFA... These friendly matches represent more than just a competition; they are a symbol of hope and progress for women all over the world."
While the men's Afghan team continues to compete, the new women's refugee squad offers a powerful testament to the players' resilience and the sport's role in promoting hope and opportunity.