Women’s football players in Afghanistan have shared their feelings of renewed identity after FIFA granted approval for their participation in official international competitions, Softfootball reports.
This announcement coincides with a busy time for FIFA, with preparations underway for the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver and the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026. Additionally, FIFA has designated Rabat as the host city for the 77th FIFA Congress, representing a significant shift towards North Africa.
As noted on FIFA’s official X account, the decisive action by the FIFA Council enables Afghan female players to represent their nation on the international scene after a long period filled with uncertainty.
FIFA stated:
“It means a lot for the Afghanistan women’s football team, we have been fighting for such a long time.” 🗣️Afghan female players say they have regained their identity following the FIFA Council’s decision to allow them to represent their country in official international matches:
This moment was confirmed during a heartfelt phone conversation with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, where members of the Afghanistan Women United team expressed their happiness and relief.
“It means a lot for the Afghanistan women’s football team, we have been fighting for such a long time,” one athlete remarked, underscoring the importance of this achievement following a lengthy struggle and displacement.
For the players, the emphasis now lies on what this ruling signifies. After years of striving for acknowledgment and the opportunity to compete, this decision represents much more than a chance to play; it stands as a moment of affirmation, identity, and inspiration for the future of women’s football in Afghanistan.
