Historical Triumph for the Muslim World!

It was history in the making when the first female player wearing a hijab took the field for a match at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

Nouhaila Benzina, the defender for the Moroccan team Atlas Lionesses, was at the starting line for a game against Germany in Melbourne on Monday. 

While she has played in many matches while dressed in a headscarf, she has become the first woman at a senior-level FIFA tournament to have worn a hijab. 

Speaking to a media outlet, she said “Lots of hard work was done over many years and thank God it has had a positive result. We hope to play at a high level and can honor Moroccans.” 

Citing health and safety concerns, FIFA officially banned religious head coverings in 2007, when 11-year-old Asmahan Mansour, who wished to wear a hijab for a tournament in Quebec, was disallowed from doing the same. 

However, a milestone was reached when the ban on head coverings including turbans was lifted in 2014. Players were allowed to support head coverings, provided they are basic and of the same color as their team’s uniform color. 

Insiders suggest Benzina’s appearance on Monday is going to inspire many to pursue their dreams without having to sacrifice their beliefs. 

Assmaah Helal, the co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network, said: "Girls will look at Benzina [and think] 'That could be me.' Also, the policymakers, the decision-makers, and administrators will say, 'We need to do more in our country to create these accepting and open and inclusive spaces for women and girls to participate in the game.” 

Morocco had never previously qualified for a FIFA Women's World Cup. Monday's game proved to be a dual feat for the country as it also became the first Arab or North African nation ever to feature in the tournament's history. 

Their next game will be against South Korea on Sunday, July 30 in Adelaide.

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