Dubai will take centre stage in women’s football this October as it hosts the 'FIFA Unites: Women’s Series' from 23 to 29 October. The tournament will see the UAE team face off against national sides from Chad and Libya, alongside the Afghan women’s refugee team making their international debut.
The event represents a milestone in FIFA’s mission to ensure equal opportunities for women and girls in the game. For the Afghan team, it is a chance to compete at international level for the first time, a step hailed as one of the most inspiring initiatives in global sport.
Led by Dutch coach Vera Pauw, the UAE squad will look to build momentum on home turf, while Chad and Libya target a breakthrough by seeking entry into the FIFA-Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the tournament goes beyond sport, symbolising hope and progress, and said, "We are aware of the potential the game has both on and off the pitch. These friendly matches represent more than just a competition. They are a symbol of hope and progress for women all over the world”.