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Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina is set to make an unprecedented mark at the upcoming Women’s World Cup as she becomes the first athlete to wear a hijab in the tournament’s history. Her remarkable achievement will be witnessed when Morocco commences their campaign against Germany on July 24.
While there have been other players wearing hijabs at the junior level, Benzina’s participation at the Women’s World Cup paves the way for senior athletes to follow suit. At the age of 25, she will proudly represent the Atlas Lionesses on the grandest stage of women’s football during their inaugural World Cup journey.
Morocco’s entry into the Women’s World Cup is already significant. Last year, they made history by becoming the first North African and Arab country to reach the final of a continental tournament, WAFCON. They achieved this feat by defeating Nigeria, who had won the title 11 times consecutively. This victory secured Morocco’s position as the first MENA region representative to qualify for the Women’s World Cup.
In 2007, FIFA enforced a ban on all headdresses, citing safety concerns. However, seven years later, the ban was lifted, allowing players to wear hijabs. Despite this progress, certain countries and federations, notably France and the French Football Federation (FFF), still restrict hijabi players from participating in the sport. Recently, France’s top administrative court upheld the FFF’s ban on hijabs during football matches, considering it to be “suitable and appropriate.”
Out of the 736 players taking part in the Women’s World Cup, Benzina will be the sole player wearing a hijab. Nevertheless, her impact extends far beyond the field, resonating with millions of people worldwide. She deserves immense respect for demonstrating her devotion to her faith, preserving her identity, and nurturing her love for football. Benzina’s example is a reminder that faith, identity, and passion for the game can coexist harmoniously. The world needs more players like her, who boldly live their truths.
