Nouhaila Benzina: Beautiful Photos of Morocco’s WAFCON Star in Hijab Go Viral
- Nouhaila Benzina was unique in her hijab throughout the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco
- Her viral Instagram photos, showcasing elegance in her hijab, have captivated fans, symbolising empowerment and inclusivity
- As a 27-year-old player for the Association’s Sports of Forces Armed Royal in Morocco, Benzina continues to inspire Muslim women in sports globally
Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina, who made history as the first hijabi player at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, has once again captured global attention.
She was rock-solid in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), even though her side blew away a two-goal lead as Nigeria won the title in Rabat.
Despite Morocco’s loss to the Super Falcons in Rabat, Benzina’s on-field brilliance and off-field elegance have sparked widespread admiration from football fans around the world.
Source: Instagram
She was unique on the pitch as she proudly donned her hijab throughout the tournament.
Benzina has continued to inspire women who share the same faith, branding her as a beacon of resilience and inclusivity in women’s football.
Throughout the tournament, she was brilliant, although a controversial handball penalty seemed to mar her final.
Off the pitch, her stylish appearances in her hijab have resonated deeply, leaving fans amazed, with many thanking her for the grace and representation of Muslim women in sports.
A visit to her Instagram profile shows how proud she flaunts her identity, with all photos of her in hijab.
Who is Nouhaila Benzina?
The 27-year-old defender, who was born in Kenitra, Morocco, plays professional football for the Association’s Sports of Forces Armed Royal, Morocco’s eight-time defending women’s league champions, per Soccerway.
She earned her first senior national team call-up in 2018 after an impressive outing with the U20 team.
In 2023, Benzina made the headlines across the world when she became the first player to wear a hijab at a senior-level World Cup.
It was a milestone that was enabled by FIFA’s 2014 decision to lift its ban on religious head coverings.
Women's football has continued to grow in prominence in Morocco due to the influence of King Mohammed VI’s investments.
She has continued to inspire young Muslim girls in their quest to pursue sports without compromising their faith. During the World Cup in 2023, she told FIFA:
“My message to hijabis is to stick to their dreams. It has nothing to do with sport, it is a personal choice.”
Source: Getty Images
Tinubu congratulates Super Falcons
Legit.ng earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu has taken time out to congratulate Nigeria's Super Falcons for winning the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for the 10th time in the history of the championship.
The president sent his congratulatory message in a statement signed by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shortly after the team secured its victory in the competition final on Saturday night, July 26.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!
Source: Legit.ng
