Can Muslim women wear hijabs in football matches?

Yes, Fifa permitted players to wear hijabs for religious reasons in 2014.

What challenges do female Muslim footballers face?

Challenges include societal perceptions, initial discomfort with the hijab, and a desire for better representation.

Who is Nouhaila Benzina?

Nouhaila Benzina is a Moroccan defender who made history as the first player to wear a hijab at a World Cup.

Home / Sports / Hijab: From Insecurity to Strength on the Football Pitch

Hijab: From Insecurity to Strength on the Football Pitch

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Muslim athletes face challenges integrating faith and sport, particularly with hijab use.
The hijab, once banned by Fifa, is now permitted for religious reasons in football.
Young female Muslim players desire visible role models to encourage participation.

Hijab: From Insecurity to Strength on the Football Pitch

Faith plays a crucial role for athletes like Zainab El-Mouden, guiding their discipline and conduct. However, for up-and-coming female Muslim athletes, openly expressing their faith while competing presents distinct hurdles. Zainab, a semi-pro footballer, discusses the journey of embracing her hijab on the pitch, an item worn for modesty that was once prohibited by Fifa until 2014.

Historically, the hijab faced restrictions in football, but players can now wear it for religious reasons, a change exemplified by Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina at the World Cup. Zainab recounts her personal transformation, moving from initial self-consciousness about her hijab to recognizing it as a powerful symbol of identity and strength, making her more visible to others.