Members of the Afghanistan women’s refugee football squad were prevented from flying to the United Arab Emirates after their visa applications were rejected, forcing FIFA to relocate their debut matches to Morocco.
The team, known as Afghan Women United, had been due to compete in the FIFA Unites: Women’s Series against Chad and Libya this week. Despite being advised by FIFA to go to airports while visas were pending, players were told not to board flights, leaving many traumatised and recalling memories of their evacuation from Kabul in 2021.
FIFA later announced that «unforeseen travel challenges» led to the venue switch, saying the decision ensures all teams can compete «in a safe, inclusive and competitive environment.»
The 23-member squad, now based across Australia, the UK, Portugal and Italy, flew to Morocco on Wednesday for matches beginning Sunday. Players described feeling mentally and physically exhausted after the ordeal.
FIFA said it continues to prioritise the wellbeing of all players, providing trauma support, sports psychology sessions, and safeguarding measures. The UAE Football Association has not commented on the visa denials.
The refugee squad was formed under FIFA’s guidance after the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, which barred Afghan women from participating in sports.
