"Afghanistan women will become a「symbol of resilience」after Fifa approved their return to international competition, says former captain Khalida Popal. Afghanistan have not played a competitive international since December 2018. The Taliban's return to power in 2021 triggered restrictions on women's rights, including a ban on women's sports which forced many players to seek asylum overseas. Fifa's governance regulations previously prevented it from officially recognising a team unless they were recognised by their member association, in this case the Afghanistan Football Federation. However, the amendment—approved at a Fifa council meeting in Vancouver on Tuesday—means Fifa can approve the registration of a national or representative team「under exceptional circumstances」to ensure players are not prevented from playing international football due to「situations beyond their control」."

"An Afghanistan women's refugee team have been granted eligibility for international competitions, nearly five years after the players fled their country's Taliban rule. While it is too late for the refugee team to qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil, they could participate in qualification for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles."

"Our team has always been known as an activist team. But this opportunity, with the right support from Fifa, will be the time for us to also show some skills and develop the youth talent in the diaspora. I know it's going to be tough because Afghan women inside Afghanistan will struggle to be part of that. But if we can still be the voice for them to send out hope messages and show them our support that you are not forgotten, then we will continue to use our platform."