The Extraordinary Journey of Afghan Girls’ Soccer Team
October 18th, 2023 Keeping Girls in Sport, Respect Group
Farkhunda Muhtaj, our Director of Conscience and Culture, played a crucial role in helping 300 Afghan soccer players and their families escape from the clutches of the Taliban following their takeover in August 2021. Her unwavering determination and commitment to ensuring the safety and future of these young Afghan girls were nothing short of heroic. “I knew that they couldn’t be left behind,” Farkhunda Muhtaj recalls. This extraordinary journey of survival and resilience is at the heart of a new documentary that shines a light on the Afghan youth football team’s escape, resettlement, and their triumphant participation in the Gothia Cup in Sweden.
Under the oppressive rule of the Taliban, girls were banned from going to school, women’s rights were severely restricted, and sports, once a source of inspiration, were no longer accessible to them. The team’s story, often fraught with danger and uncertainty, serves as a symbol of the resilience and unity among these young girls.
Despite the harrowing experiences they endured during their escape,
the team found solace and a profound sense of unity within their ranks. Their shared experiences in the face of adversity only strengthened their bonds.
Upon reaching safety in Lisbon, Portugal, the team members experienced a surge of emotion. For them, it was a chance at a brighter future and an opportunity to continue pursuing their passion for football.
Their journey was far from over, as they set their sights on the Gothia Youth World Cup, marking the first time Afghanistan would be represented in the tournament. The preparation and training were monumental for the team, and it was a source of immense pride for them.
For the girls of Ayenda FC, sharing their story became a mission in itself. They understood the significance of shedding light on the challenges female athletes face in Afghanistan. Playing football has taken on profound meaning for these young athletes. Their incredible journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring spirit of Afghan girls, standing up for their dreams and paving the way for a brighter future.
