Afghan Women Footballers Reunite in Exile After FIFA Recognition

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Auckland: Afghan women footballers forced into exile after the Taliban banned women from organised sport have reunited in New Zealand for their first training camp since FIFA recognised their refugee-based team.

The 23-player squad, now living in countries including Australia, the UK and Portugal, played two friendly matches against the Cook Islands after FIFA ruled in April that they could represent Afghanistan in future official competitions.

The original Afghan women's national team was forced to disband after the Taliban returned to power in 2021 and imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls, including banning them from sport. Following years of campaigning, the players formed Afghan Women United, a refugee team that can now pursue qualification for tournaments such as the Women's World Cup and the Olympics.

Many of the players said football gave them hope during exile and a chance to rebuild their lives. Some have resumed their studies, while others now coach or advocate for women's rights in their adopted countries.

Although the team lost both matches against the Cook Islands, the players said simply returning to the pitch was a victory, symbolising resilience and their determination to continue representing Afghan women despite years of displacement and uncertainty.

Pic Credit: AFP