Nouhaila Benzina: Morocco defender turns into first participant to put on hijab at World Cup

A Morocco defender has made historical past by turning into the primary participant to put on a hijab whereas competing at a senior worldwide event.

Nouhaila Benzina wore the headband as she stepped onto the sphere in opposition to South Korea in Morocco’s second World Cup match.

FIFA had imposed a foul on taking part in in spiritual head coverings for “health and safety reasons” – however that ban was overturned in 2014 after advocacy from activists, athletes and authorities and soccer officers.

Benzina didn’t play in Morocco’s opening 6-0 loss to Germany in Melbourne.

But she performed an necessary function in her aspect’s defensive position, and picked up a yellow card. Morocco received 1-0.

Morocco are the primary Arab or North African nation to qualify for the Women’s World Cup.

“We are honoured to be the first Arab country to take part in the Women’s World Cup,” captain Ghizlane Chebbak mentioned earlier than event.

“And we feel that we have to shoulder a big responsibility to give a good image, to show the achievements the Moroccan team has made.”

Activists imagine Benzina’s choice to put on the hijab will encourage others.

“I have no doubt that more and more women and Muslim girls will look at Benzina and just really be inspired – not just the players, but I think decision makers, coaches, other sports as well,” mentioned Assmaah Helal, a co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network.