A new chapter in women’s football will be written next month as the Afghan women’s refugee team makes its long-awaited debut on the international stage. FIFA confirmed on Wednesday that the team will participate in the “FIFA Unites: Women’s Series” tournament, scheduled to take place in Dubai from October 23 to 29.
The four-team event will feature the Afghan refugee squad alongside national sides from the United Arab Emirates, Chad, and Libya. For the Afghan players, this tournament represents more than competition—it symbolizes resilience, hope, and the fight for equality in sport.
The team’s formation comes in the aftermath of the Taliban’s ban on women’s sports following their return to power in 2021. Fearing persecution, many players were forced to flee Afghanistan, with most of the nation’s contracted footballers now residing in Australia. Since then, FIFA has organized global talent identification camps to assemble a 23-player squad representing Afghan women in exile.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the moment as a milestone in football’s mission to empower women. “Ensuring that all women have access to football is a priority for FIFA. These matches are more than just competition; they are a symbol of hope and progress for women across the world,” Infantino said.
The Afghan men’s national team continues to play under normal circumstances, but for the women, this debut in Dubai will mark a powerful step towards reclaiming their presence in international football. Beyond the results, their participation stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the unifying spirit of sport.
