The Atlas Lioness of Morocco got a 1-0 win at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup against South Korea, courtesy a sixth minute header from Ibtissam Jraidi, but Nouhaila Benzina stole the show on the day.
The Moroccan women, coached by Frenchman Reynald Pedros are making their debut appearance at the competition, as Moroccan defender, Nouhaila Benzina, made history to become the first ever player to wear a hijab at the World Cup.
In 2014, FIFA authorised the wearing of head covers for religious purposes during matches, as it will allow female Muslim players who wear a hijab in everyday life, cover their heads during matches as well.
25 year-old Benzina, who was an unused substitute during her country’s opening 6-0 loss against Germany, was born on May 11 in Kenitra, and she plays for the Sports Association of the Royal Armed Forces club in Rabat, Morocco.
Morocco will play thier final group match against Colombia on Thursday, August 3, as they join Nigeria to become the only teams from Africa to win a match at the ongoing mundial jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
