Kafaji: The Professional Journey and Career Evolution
From the early pitches of Akalla to the elite stadiums of the Women's Super League, Kafaji has established herself as a formidable talent in women's football. Her career is marked by a consistent ability to find the back of the net and a steady climb through the ranks of European football.
Early Beginnings and Rise at AIK
Kafaji's football journey began at the age of eight with Kallhälls FF. After developing her skills there and later playing for Bele Barkarby FF, she joined AIK ahead of the 2015 season. Her transition to the senior level came in 2019, when she made her debut for the A-team in the Elitettan (the second tier of Swedish women's football), recording four goals and three assists in just seven matches.
The 2020 season served as a breakout year for Kafaji. She scored 12 goals in 18 appearances, playing a pivotal role in securing AIK's promotion to the Damallsvenskan, the top flight of Swedish football.
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European Success with BK Hacken
In January 2022, Kafaji moved to BK Hacken, where her scoring prowess continued to flourish. Over the course of 61 appearances, she netted 28 goals. Her impact extended beyond domestic competition as she made her debut in the UWCL (UEFA Women's Champions League).
During the 2023-24 season, Kafaji scored four goals in the UWCL, helping BK Hacken reach the quarter-finals for the first time in the club's history. Her exceptional form led UEFA to name her as one of the ten players to watch in 2024. She concluded her tenure at the club as the top scorer for her final season, contributing 15 goals.
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Transition to English Football: Arsenal and Beyond
On August 13, 2024, Kafaji signed a long-term contract with Arsenal in the Women's Super League. She made an immediate impact, scoring her first goal for the club on October 20, 2024, during a 2–0 away victory against West Ham.
As part of her professional development, it was announced on August 11, 2025, that Kafaji would spend the 2025-26 season on loan at Brighton.
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New Chapter with London City Lionesses
Following her time with Arsenal, Kafaji entered a new phase of her career on July 16, 2026. She signed a three-year contract with the London City Lionesses for an undisclosed fee.
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Key Facts
- Youth Start: Began playing at age eight with Kallhälls FF.
- Promotion Success: Helped AIK reach the Damallsvenskan in 2020.
- UWCL Milestone: Contributed to BK Hacken's first-ever quarter-final appearance.
- UEFA Recognition: Named one of UEFA's ten players to watch in 2024.
- Arsenal Debut Goal: Scored against West Ham on October 20, 2024.
Career Summary Table
| Club | Period | Key Achievement/Stat |
|---|---|---|
| AIK | 2019–2021 | 16 goals in 25 matches (2019-20) |
| BK Hacken | 2022–2024 | 28 goals in 61 appearances |
| Arsenal | 2024–2026 | Signed long-term contract; scored vs West Ham |
| Brighton | 2025–2026 | Season-long loan |
| London City Lionesses | 2026–Present | Three-year contract |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Kafaji start her football career?
Kafaji began playing football at the age of eight with Kallhälls FF, later playing for Bele Barkarby FF before joining AIK.
What was Kafaji's impact at BK Hacken?
She scored 28 goals in 61 games and helped the club reach the UWCL quarter-finals for the first time in its history, scoring four goals in the 2023-24 campaign.
When did Kafaji join Arsenal and when did she score her first goal?
She joined Arsenal on August 13, 2024, and scored her debut goal on October 20, 2024, in a match against West Ham.
Did Kafaji play for any other English clubs besides Arsenal?
Yes, she spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Brighton and later signed a three-year deal with the London City Lionesses in July 2026.
Was Kafaji recognized by UEFA?
Yes, due to her strong performances, UEFA named her as one of the ten players to watch in 2024.