MuhammadSalis 
After years in exile, Afghan women footballers made a symbolic comeback at a FIFA tournament in Morocco, playing under the name Afghan Women United despite a ban on women’s sport at home.
Afghan Women United Make Emotional Return to the Pitch
BERRECHID, Morocco, Oct 27, 2025: The Afghan women’s refugee football team made an inspiring return to international football on Sunday, marking their first official appearance in over four years at the FIFA Unites: Women’s Series tournament in Morocco.
Despite suffering a 6-1 defeat to Chad, the match represented far more than a sporting result — it was a moment of defiance, resilience, and hope for Afghan women who have been banned from participating in sports since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
“That’s all we wanted all these years — our right to play and to represent our country,” said captain Fatima Haidari before the game. “We are profoundly grateful that FIFA gave us this opportunity.”
From Exile to the World Stage
Since the Taliban banned women from sports and education in Afghanistan, most members of the national football team fled the country, fearing persecution. Before 2021, Afghanistan had 25 contracted women players, many of whom now reside in Australia.
In May 2025, FIFA officially approved the formation of a new Afghan women’s refugee team, composed of displaced players scattered across several countries. Led by coach Pauline Hamill, the side chose to compete under the name “Afghan Women United” after consultations with FIFA.
Their debut match — played in the Moroccan city of Berrechid, about 40 kilometres from Casablanca — was their first international appearance since 2021, when the former Afghan national team lost 5-0 to Qatar.
A Goal Worth Celebrating
For a team that has endured exile and uncertainty, scoring a goal was an emotional triumph.
Melbourne-based striker Manozh Noori converted a penalty to give Afghan Women United a dream start, sparking wild celebrations on the field and among the team’s supporters.
Chad, however, recovered quickly and dominated the rest of the game, securing a comfortable win thanks to their greater experience and physical advantage.
Still, for the Afghan players, the result hardly mattered. The mere act of stepping onto the pitch wearing Afghanistan’s colours — albeit under a different name — was a victory of courage and identity.
FIFA’s Support and Global Significance
The FIFA Unites: Women’s Series brings together refugee and emerging national teams as part of FIFA’s initiative to promote inclusivity and empowerment through sport. The four-team event features Chad, Tunisia, Libya, and Afghan Women United.
Originally scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates, the tournament was relocated to Morocco last week due to logistical adjustments.
FIFA’s backing has been crucial in giving these women a platform. The governing body worked closely with international refugee organizations to provide Afghan players with resources, training, and safe passage to participate.
“Football Is Freedom”
The Afghan players’ journey has been defined by resilience. Many of them trained in secrecy or underground facilities before escaping the country. Now, they are determined to show the world that Afghan women still have a voice — and that it can echo through the game they love.
“It’s not just a game for us,” said captain Fatima Haidari. “It’s a statement. It’s proof that Afghan women exist, that we can dream, and that no one can silence us forever.”
Upcoming Fixtures
Afghan Women United will next face Tunisia on Wednesday, followed by a final group match against Libya on Saturday.
Regardless of the results, their return to competitive football represents a milestone for Afghan women’s sport — and a powerful reminder that even under oppression, the spirit of the game endures.
Summary
- Team name: Afghan Women United
- Coach: Pauline Hamill
- Tournament: FIFA Unites: Women’s Series (Morocco)
- First match: Lost 6–1 to Chad
- Next fixtures: vs Tunisia (Wednesday), vs Libya (Saturday)
- Significance: First international appearance since 2021; symbol of resistance and empowerment for Afghan women
