Far from home, Afghan females reunite in pursuit of a place on the refugee team
At the St George’s Park home of the Lionesses, female footballers from Afghanistan have reunited. Their mission: to secure positions on the refugee team, a unique initiative set up by FIFA.
“It was like a warm hug for us,” said defender Najma Arefi to Sky News. “Being here, working as a team and playing together again.”
Despite reunions marked by joy, the women carry memories of loss and struggle
Najma Arefi continues, “Everything collapsed overnight, like a nightmare. Back home, friends tell me a dog on the street has more rights than a woman.”
Elsewhere, Elaha Safdari shares a story of fleeing at 17 and facing prejudice in pursuit of her football dreams
“I felt racism; they attacked me because I’m a refugee,” Yet, Safdari persists: “Football inspired me through education here.”
They hope FIFA recognizes their efforts and continue beyond refugee status as the official women’s national team, not under the Taliban
“It’s a dream to be here. We need to speak for Afghan women, be their voice,” Arefi emphasized, urging the world not to forget those facing hardship at home.
