The inaugural FIFA Unites: Women’s Series 2025 wrapped up on Saturday in Berrechid, Morocco, marking a breakthrough moment for women’s football in emerging nations.
Unbeaten Chad lifted the title after an inspiring week of competition, while Afghan Women United ended their campaign with a remarkable 7–0 win over Libya.
Hosted by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), the week-long tournament brought together four teams Chad, Tunisia, Libya, and Afghan Women United, in a celebration of resilience, opportunity, and unity.
Chad’s journey was nothing short of stunning. Previously unranked in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, the team defied the odds to beat Tunisia 1–0 in the decisive match.
Striker Solange Larkingam, who finished with seven goals, scored the winner in the first half before Chad bravely held on with ten players after a red card.
The victory not only crowned them champions but also ensured both Chad and Libya will appear in the global rankings for the first time in December, a huge step for women’s football in Central Africa.
Afghan Women United’s story was equally powerful. Competing internationally for the first time in almost four years, the team was formed under FIFA’s Strategy for Action for Afghan Women’s Football after trials in Australia and England.
Led by Scottish coach Pauline Hamill and South African assistant Shilene Booysen, they united players from across the Afghan diaspora.
After netting their first-ever goal in a narrow loss to Chad, they finished on a high with a dominant 7–0 victory over Libya to claim bronze.
“We were waiting and dreaming of this win,” said captain Fatima Sadat.
“We learned so much, and for the next generation of Afghan players, we’ll be the ones to guide them.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who attended the tournament, praised the teams, telling Afghan Women United they were “at the beginning of a beautiful story” that would inspire women everywhere.
Beyond the matches, players took part in workshops on leadership, teamwork, and mental health, reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to supporting women in football on and off the pitch.
For Chad, it was a landmark triumph. For Afghanistan, a rebirth of hope. For everyone involved, a reminder of football’s power to unite, empower, and inspire.
As FIFA Chief Football Officer Jill Ellis and other dignitaries presented the medals, the moment symbolized far more than victory, it marked the start of a new chapter for global women’s football.
The FIFA Unites: Women’s Series 2025 was more than a competition. It was a statement, that the women’s game knows no boundaries and that every story, from N’Djamena to Kabul, deserves its place on the world stage.
