Afghanistan’s under-17 national futsal team traveled to Paktia today (Wednesday, November 5), where dozens of residents turned out to welcome the players, as seen in shared images.
The U-17 team became champions of the 2025 Asian Youth Games for the first time after defeating Iran 2–1.
The players returned from Bahrain to Kabul on Saturday (November 1) and were met with large crowds.
In western Kabul, an especially large and rare reception was held, with women and girls also present among the supporters.
The team’s victory brought smiles and a rare moment of joy to a nation long affected by poverty and conflict. According to analysts, sports have helped transcend ethnic boundaries and project the image of a more united Afghanistan.
