Football: Afghanistan women again set to fight for future
Deutsche Welle
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Afghanistan's women's football team continues to face significant challenges as they seek international recognition and opportunities to compete on the global stage. Following their historic FIFA-recognized match in Morocco last year, the players are now preparing for potential fixtures in June, despite ongoing hurdles such as visa rejections tied to political ties between the UAE and the Taliban. The team's journey is a testament to their resilience, with members like goalkeeper Elaha Safdari expressing their eagerness to represent Afghanistan again while emphasizing the importance of discipline and teamwork during their training camps.
The women's football movement in Afghanistan has been a long battle for recognition, with the players enduring years of silence and setbacks. After being displaced during the Taliban takeover in 2021, the team, now known as Afghan Women United, found a safe haven in countries like Australia and the UK. Their progress gained momentum last October when FIFA officially recognized them, allowing them to participate in an international friendly match. However, the absence of further matches has left the players waiting for more opportunities to prove themselves on the global stage.
The team's situation highlights the broader challenges faced by women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, particularly in sports and human rights. While they have managed to gain some traction through international support and legal advocacy, their progress remains fragile. The lack of transparency from FIFA regarding the UAE's visa refusal further complicates their efforts, raising questions about political interference in sports diplomacy. This situation underscores the broader struggle for women's rights in Afghanistan and the impact of global geopolitics
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/25/2026