DUBAI, Sept 24, 2025: The Afghan women’s refugee team will make their international debut next month at a tournament in the United Arab Emirates, FIFA said on Wednesday.
The FIFA Council at football’s world governing body approved the creation of the refugee team in May as part of efforts to support women players inside and outside the country.
The Afghan side will feature in a competition in Dubai on October 23-29 that also includes the women’s teams of hosts the UAE, Chad and Libya.
“Ensuring that all women have access to football is a priority for FIFA and a key element in shaping the future of our sport,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said.
The Taliban authorities have been back in power for four years in Afghanistan after ousting a US-backed government and have drawn international criticism for their human rights record, particularly the treatment of women.
Women and girls are banned from most education and work, and also barred from parks and gyms.
Under Scottish coach Pauline Hamill the Afghan team have conducted talent ID camps, including in England and Sydney, to pick out players to represent the side.
