FIFA Announces Afghan Women’s Refugee Team
FIFA has announced the 23-player squad of the Afghan women’s refugee team for a four-team friendly tournament in the United Arab Emirates. This marks the first international appearance of Afghan women in nearly four years.
Among the selected players, 13 live in Australia, 5 in the United Kingdom, 3 in Portugal, and 2 in Italy.
The team was formed under FIFA’s guidance as part of the organization’s comprehensive commitment to restoring Afghan women’s football to the global stage. They are set to travel to the UAE from 23 to 29 October 2025 to play three friendly matches.
The head coach, Pauline Hamill, former Scotland U-19 coach, said:
"This is an incredibly exciting moment, and I think everyone involved in this program can be very proud of it."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the announcement as a “special and symbolic moment” and added:
"FIFA will continue to stand by all Afghan women as these 23 players take this historic step."
The team was formed in May 2025 with FIFA’s support. Players were selected through talent identification camps in Australia and the United Kingdom and were fully prepared technically and psychologically for their international debut.
