Afghan Women United marked a significant milestone in their journey by playing their first match in a FIFA-organized friendly competition in Morocco. The team, which represents Afghan women footballers who fled their homeland due to the Taliban’s oppressive regime, competed in the FIFA Unites: Women’s Series tournament. This year’s event is particularly historic. This will be their first return to play on an international stage in four years, with the last game being in 2021.
The tournament that was originally meant to be hosted in the United Arab Emirates got thrown a curveball on short notice. Since Afghan Women United was unable to gain access to the UAE, they moved their home base from there to Morocco. There, they tackled Chad in their opening game of the tournament. The tournament has teams from Tunisia and Libya. This is a great example of genuine commitment to develop women’s football in countries that have survived a war culture.
A New Beginning for Afghan Women Footballers
FIFA was instrumental in choosing the official name “Afghan Women United.” This decision continues to send a powerful message of solidarity for female athletes from Afghanistan. Captain Fatima Haidari expressed the team’s sentiments about their long-awaited opportunity, stating, “That’s all we wanted all these years after trying so hard to get what we truly deserve as a woman. Our right to play and to represent our country.”
The road to this moment has not been free of challenges. Unfortunately, since the Taliban government returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021, women’s sports have become illegal. Thousands of players had to either escape, abandoning their dreams and homes in the process. Prior to the regime change, Afghanistan had 25 women contracted players. The majority of them currently reside in Australia — through the generous safety that government has offered — where they’re starting anew.
Celebrating Resilience and Achievements
And just like that—in a dramatic final moments victory against Chad—Afghan Women United have done it! Manozh Noori converted the game’s first goal, whapping home a strong penalty kick. Her successful attempt was the start of a new era for the team. It unleashed joyous pandemonium with her teammates and fans on the sidelines. This goal is the best reflection of their resiliency and grit.
Captain Haidari reiterated the significance of this opportunity, saying, “We are profoundly grateful that FIFA gave us this opportunity and this privilege to represent what women are capable of.” Their participation through the presence of Afghan Women United on the international stage symbolizes hope and empowerment for women athletes from Afghanistan.
Looking Ahead
The Afghan women’s national team has not played an international match since 2021. Surprisingly, they were matched up with Qatar and suffered a brutal 5-0 loss. It’s hard to believe, as so much has changed for these athletes over that time. In May, FIFA approved the establishment of an Afghan women’s refugee team with Pauline Hamill appointed as its coach. This step is only the latest sign of a concerted attempt to foster and promote the young female footballers who have suffered as a consequence of civil unrest.
As Afghan Women United continues their journey in the FIFA Unites: Women’s Series tournament, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of countless women back home who aspire to play sports freely and without fear.
