Three Key Players Leave Afghanistan National Football Team

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — Three main and effective players have separated from the Afghanistan national football team amid an ongoing player shortage crisis.

The departures follow a challenging match against Myanmar, where some national team players boycotted, leaving the squad to field only six reserve players. This boycott significantly complicated preparations and performance for the coaching staff.

Omid Arzu, who had been absent due to an injury sustained while playing in the Indian league, has now joined the team in Jeddah and is available to play.

The Afghan delegation is currently in Jeddah preparing for the final match of the third stage qualifiers for the 2027 Asian Cup against Syria. The game, set for Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. Saudi time, is ceremonial, as Syria has already confirmed its qualification.

These developments highlight the difficulties facing the Afghanistan national football team as it navigates player availability issues ahead of this inconsequential fixture.