Title: Moroccan Defender Nouhaila Benzina Makes History as First Hijabi Player at Women’s World Cup
Date: July 30, 2023
Adelaide, Australia – Nouhaila Benzina, a defender for the Moroccan women’s soccer team, created history by becoming the first player to wear a hijab while competing at a senior-level global tournament. This groundbreaking moment occurred during Morocco’s second Women’s World Cup match against South Korea.
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) had previously imposed a ban on religious head coverings for “health and safety reasons.” However, following extensive advocacy by activists, athletes, government officials, and soccer authorities, the ban was overturned in 2014. This decision paved the way for players like Benzina to express their faith while participating in FIFA-sanctioned games.
Assmaah Helal, co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network, expressed her belief that Benzina’s historic achievement would serve as an inspiration for women and Muslim girls across various sports. She remarked, “I have no doubt that more and more decision-makers, coaches, and female athletes will look at Benzina and be inspired by her courage and determination.”
Benzina, who plays for Morocco’s top women’s league as part of the Association’s Sports of Forces Armed Royal, did not feature in her team’s opening 6-0 loss against Germany in Melbourne. However, she eagerly awaited her opportunity and finally seized it in the Group H match against South Korea held in Adelaide.
Her patience was rewarded as the Atlas Lionesses displayed newfound freedom during the afternoon game against South Korea. Scoring in the 6th minute, Morocco secured a slim but crucial 1-0 victory. Benzina contributed significantly to the team’s defensive line and was cautioned with a yellow card late in the game for a tactical foul during a South Korean counter-attack.
Morocco’s presence in the Women’s World Cup is also significant as it marks the first Arab or North African nation to qualify for the tournament. Ghizlane Chebbak, the captain of the Moroccan team, expressed the team’s honor and responsibility to represent their country on such a prestigious stage. Chebbak stated, “We are honored to be the first Arab country to take part in the Women’s World Cup, and we feel that we have to shoulder a big responsibility to give a good image and show the achievements the Moroccan team has made.”
Nouhaila Benzina’s courageous step to wear a hijab while competing at the Women’s World Cup serves as a symbol of inclusivity and diversity in the sport. Her landmark moment will undoubtedly inspire future generations of female Muslim athletes and pave the way for further progress in promoting representation and acceptance within soccer and beyond.