Former Afghanistan Women's Football Captain Supports Iranian Players' Asylum Bid

Khalida Popal, former captain and founder of Afghanistan's women's national football team, praised the courage of Iranian women footballers who sought asylum in Australia and urged global football bodies to better protect female athletes facing threats.

According to Reuters, Popal called on FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation to take stronger actions in support of women athletes under pressure. Concerns over the Iranian players' safety arose after Iran's state television labeled the team 'traitors in wartime' for not singing the national anthem during the AFC Women's Cup.

Popal, who fled Afghanistan in 2011 due to her football activities and later received asylum in Denmark, described the Iranian players' decision as brave despite severe pressures. She stated: 'What the Iranian women are doing now is standing against the pressures of an oppressive government. This is a very courageous act and they should be proud of themselves.'

Popal highlighted the psychological toll of seeking asylum, drawing from her own experience. She said even after reaching physical safety, refugees face mental pressures, anxiety, and guilt over loved ones left behind. Upon leaving Afghanistan, she dealt with depression, stress, and constant worry for her family.

Popal, also founder of the 'Girl Power' organization, thanked the Australian government for granting humanitarian asylum to five Iranian national team players. FIFPro, the global players' union, has urged football bodies to ensure their security. Popal emphasized that FIFA and AFC must act swiftly, stating: 'Now is the time for these organizations to stand with the Iranian women. Their security must be prioritized.'

In a separate development, Iran's Sports Minister Ahmad Diniyemali announced the country will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing security concerns after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes and the assassination of Iran's leader. He told state television: 'Given that America has assassinated our leader, we cannot participate under any circumstances.' Iran's matches were scheduled in the U.S.