In a historic moment at the ongoing Women’s World Cup in Australia, Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina has become the first football player to wear a hijab at a World Cup match.
The 25-year-old donned the Islamic headscarf as she made her debut appearance in the tournament, playing a vital role in her team’s impressive 1-0 victory against South Korea on Sunday.
Benzina, who plays her club football in Morocco, is the first player to wear a hijab at a senior women’s international tournament.
She was an unused substitute during her country’s opening game against Germany, which they lost 6-0.
Morocco gained their first ever victory at a Women’s World Cup as they secured a shock win over South Korea on Sunday, the same day Nouhaila sets history.
GOOD EVENING NIGERIA recalls that Football’s governing body, FIFA, had officially authorized the wearing of head covers for religious reasons during matches back in 2014.
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This decision allowed female Muslim players, like Nouhaila Benzina, who wear a hijab in their everyday lives, to continue wearing it while competing on the field.
Benzina’s historic moment marks a significant step forward for inclusivity and diversity in women’s football, as it embraces players’ cultural and religious identities.
What we Know about her
- Nouhaila Benzina was born in 11th May, 1998.
- She was born in Kenitra, Morocco.
- She is a defender.
- Benzina has played for ASFAR in Morocco.
- Benzina has capped for Morocco at under-20 and senior levels.
- 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup marks her debut World Cup appearance .
- Marital status is unclear.
Honors
- Moroccan Women’s Championship (7): 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
- Moroccan Women Throne Cup (5): 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
- UNAF Women’s Club Tournament (1): 2021
- CAF Women’s Champions League (1): 2022; third place: 2021
Morocco
- Africa Cup of Nations runner-up: 2022[14]
- UNAF Women’s Tournament: 2020