Afghan women's team prepares for international competition in New Zealand

The Afghan women’s football team is back on the international stage, training in Auckland, New Zealand, ahead of matches against the Cook Islands. This comes after the team was forced into hiding following the Taliban's resurgence in 2021. Many players are now based in Australia, where they have trained and nurtured hopes of representing Afghanistan again. FIFA's recent recognition of their team as eligible for international play marks a significant milestone. Players like Fatima Yousufi and Mona Amini emphasize their commitment to being a voice for Afghan women and girls still facing challenges at home.

• 12:25 PMYahoo Sports — Afghan women’s football team back on international stage after escaping the Taliban