Moroccan referees Hermas and Ennawajli selected for U-17 Women’s World Cup

Moroccan referees Zoulikha Hermas and Ihssane Ennawajli will represent their country in officiating at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which Morocco is hosting this October.

Hermas will serve as an international referee, a status she has held since 2024, while Ennawajli has been an international assistant referee since 2019.

Their selection highlights Morocco’s representation at the global tournament beyond the players on the pitch, with both officials contributing to the country’s presence in international women’s football.

Moroccan duo take up key officiating roles

Hermas will be responsible for overseeing matches and ensuring that the laws of the game are applied, while Ennawajli will assist referees with decisions during matches.

Assistant referees help monitor offside situations, identify incidents outside the main referee’s field of vision and provide support on other decisions throughout a game.

Both roles demand a strong understanding of football regulations, concentration, physical fitness and the ability to make decisions under pressure.

Their involvement in the tournament places them among the Moroccan officials contributing to the country’s presence on the international football stage.

Women’s refereeing in Morocco gains visibility

The participation of Hermas and Ennawajli also highlights the presence of Moroccan women in refereeing, a profession that plays an essential role in the organisation and management of football competitions.

While players often attract the greatest attention at major tournaments, referees and assistant referees are responsible for helping ensure fair competition through technical knowledge, discipline and impartiality.

International appointments also provide female officials with opportunities to gain experience and increase their professional visibility.

Hermas’s international referee status, established in 2024, and Ennawajli’s experience as an international assistant referee since 2019 reflect their respective journeys in the profession.

Morocco showcases its involvement in women’s football

Hosting the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup gives Morocco an opportunity to showcase its involvement in women’s football, including through the participation of national players, referees and other professionals.

The presence of Hermas and Ennawajli highlights the contribution of Moroccan women beyond playing roles and offers an example for young girls interested in pursuing careers in refereeing.

Their involvement underlines the different opportunities available within football and the importance of female officials in managing matches and enforcing the rules of the game.

As Morocco hosts the tournament, the two referees will form part of the country’s representation at an international competition that brings attention to women’s participation in the sport.