CASABLANCA, Morocco — Sudan’s women’s national soccer program has returned to international competition despite the continuing effects of conflict and displacement, with the country’s under-17 women’s team taking part in international qualifiers this month after more than three years of disruption to organized sport, according to Sudanese football officials and tournament organizers.
The team competed in qualifying matches in Casablanca in June, marking the first international appearance by a Sudan women’s side since conflict escalated across the country in 2023. Sudan’s football federation fielded an under-17 squad after difficulties assembling a senior national team because of the ongoing humanitarian and security challenges facing the country, officials said.
Many of the players were recruited from schools in Sudan and from refugee communities in neighboring countries, according to coach Burhan Tia. Training opportunities were limited, and the team had only a short preparation period before entering competition. “The difference between us and the others is huge,” Tia said, referring to the experience gap between Sudan’s squad and its opponents.
The matches highlighted the obstacles confronting women’s football in Sudan. Beyond the impact of conflict, players and officials said they faced social barriers and online harassment. According to reporting by the Associated Press, some team members were subjected to sexist comments on social media following their matches.
The return to competition comes as Sudan continues to grapple with a wider humanitarian crisis. International organizations have reported large-scale displacement and severe disruptions to public services since fighting intensified between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in 2023. The conflict has affected sports infrastructure and limited opportunities for athletes to train and compete, according to football officials and aid groups.
Sudan’s football federation said it intends to continue developing women’s football despite the challenges. Manal Ali Bushra, who heads the federation’s women’s football committee, said efforts are underway to rebuild and expand opportunities for female players. “The main challenge for me is a reform of the federation,” she told the Associated Press, citing the need for greater investment and support for the women’s game.
Women’s football in Sudan has faced periods of restriction and underinvestment over the past decades, making the team’s return to international play a notable milestone for the sport. Officials said participation in international tournaments remains a priority despite ongoing logistical difficulties.
As of mid-June, Sudan’s under-17 team had completed its qualifying matches in Morocco. Federation officials said plans for future competitions and development programs remain in place, although details of upcoming activities remain unclear as the country continues to face the effects of the conflict.
