A Morocco defender has made historical past by changing into the primary participant to put on a hijab whereas competing at a senior worldwide event.
Nouhaila Benzina wore the scarf as she stepped onto the sector towards South Korea in Morocco’s second World Cup match.
FIFA had imposed a foul on taking part in in non secular 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 vital position in her facet’s line of defense, 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 stated 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 consider Benzina’s determination 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,” stated Assmaah Helal, a co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network.
Source: information.sky.com”