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Morocco’s Nouhaila Benzina Becomes First Footballer to Wear Hijab at FIFA World Cup
7-26-2023
Rabat - The Atlass Lionesses are continuing to make history this year, with defender Nouhaila Benzina becoming the first footballer ever to wear a hijab during a FIFA World Cup match.
Benzina played as part of the starting lineup against Germany in Melbourne on Monday.
The Moroccan team made their debut in the FIFA World Cup with a match against two-time champions Germany, where they lost 6-0. The team is competing in Group H.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Benzina said she was proud to be part of her team as they’re making history, as Morocco is the first Arab country to ever compete in a Women’s World Cup.
“Lots of hard work was done over many years and thank God it has had a positive result,” she said. “We hope to play at a high level and can honor Moroccans.”
The Atlas Lionesses made history as they secured their first-ever qualification for the Women's World Cup last year.
The momentous achievement was earned through a decisive victory against Botswana in the quarter-finals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Throughout the continental tournament, the Atlas Lionesses showcased exceptional skills and dedication, reaching the WAFCON final for the very first time in their history.
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