A FIFA rule change allowing Afghanistan's women footballers to compete in official matches is a "historical moment," former captain Khalida Popal told AFP on Thursday. Afghanistan will now be eligible to qualify for the Women's World Cup and the Olympics. Previously, FIFA rules required approval from the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan Football Federation. A FIFA amendment this week allows official recognition of the Afghanistan team through an agreement between FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation. FIFA president Gianni Infantino called it a "powerful and unprecedented step in world sport."
Key Points
- Afghan women footballers exiled since the Taliban takeover can now represent their country officially.
- The team can qualify for the Women's World Cup and Olympics for the first time.
- The rule change applies to other teams in exceptional circumstances globally.
- Players scattered across Australia, Europe, Britain, and the US can now unite as a national team.
- The decision recognises football as a basic human right for girls and women.
Watch for player trials ahead of a possible game in June and whether Afghanistan qualifies for future Women's World Cup editions.
Sources: The Punch
