The Women Who Shaped the History of Football

CAF

08-03-2025

They have carved their names into the history of both African and world football, each in their own unique way. Whether as players, administrators, referees, or business leaders, these pioneers have broken barriers, defied stereotypes, and inspired future generations.
Through talent, determination, and leadership, they have helped redefine the role of women in football, paving the way for greater equality in a sport still largely dominated by men.
Queens of the Pitch
African female footballers have come a long way since the first-ever goal scored by an African woman at a FIFA Women's World Cup. In 1995, during the tournament in Sweden, Nigeria's Rita Nwadike made history by surprising the Canadian defense with a deep run before finishing with a goal that drew inspiration from her legendary compatriot Rashidi Yekini.
Since then, African women have continued to shine on the global stage. Asisat Oshoala lit up the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup with a stunning goal against South Korea, while Ajara Njoya Nchout of Cameroon scored a dramatic last-minute winner against New Zealand: "That day, we proved that we are Lionesses. When I received the ball, I knew it was our last chance. If I missed, the match was over. I took my time, dribbled the defender, and struck towards the far post. If you panic under pressure, you miss. You have to stay calm and control the ball," Nchout said after the match.
African female footballers continue to make history. In 2023, Zambia's Barbra Banda scored the 1,000th goal in Women's World Cup history with a penalty against Costa Rica, cementing her legacy.
Meanwhile, her compatriot Racheal Kundananji became the most expensive African female footballer ever after joining Bay FC in the NWSL for $865,000 in 2024. However, this record was soon shattered by Ethiopian-American star Naomi Girma, who transferred from San Diego Wave to Chelsea in 2025 for $1.1 million.
Beyond their on-field performances, these women continue to redefine football's cultural and social landscape. In 2023, Morocco's Nouhaila Benzina became the first hijab-wearing player to compete at the FIFA Women's World Cup, a historic moment that symbolized greater diversity and inclusion in football.
"Years of hard work have led to this moment, and the result has been overwhelmingly positive," she told Al Jazeera before the tournament. Her presence on the world stage demonstrated that faith and football can coexist harmoniously, inspiring countless young girls across Africa and beyond.
Trailblazing Women in Refereeing
If there is one authority on the pitch, it is the referee—and African women are breaking barriers in this field as well. Salima Mukansanga, from Rwanda, has established herself as a leading referee on the continent.
In 2022, she made history by becoming the first woman to officiate a CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match, taking charge of the game between Zimbabwe and Guinea. Her influence extended globally when she was selected as one of only three female referees—alongside Stéphanie Frappart (France) and Yoshimi Yamashita (Japan)—to officiate at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where she was part of the 36 referees chosen by FIFA.
Women Leading Football
Another major force in football administration is Fatma Samoura, who made history as the first woman and first non-European to serve as FIFA Secretary General. During her seven-year tenure, she was instrumental in developing women's football worldwide.
"My experience in conflict zones with the United Nations showed me the power of football in changing lives, especially for women and young girls. This is why I am proud of the progress made in women's football," Samoura once said.
Meanwhile, Khadija Timera, a lawyer and former boxer, is championing African players' rights at FIFPRO, the world's largest footballers' union. As the first African woman to join FIFPRO's Executive Committee, the Senegalese professional is pushing for better conditions and career opportunities for African footballers.
"I want to connect with people who share the same goals—those who want to leave a legacy and make a real difference, not only for footballers but also for the African community. Opening doors for future generations is my mission," she declared.
Game-Changers in Football Business
Some women have mastered the business side of football, influencing the sport far beyond the field. Jessica Motaung is one such figure. The former beauty queen has become a key leader in African football, serving as Marketing Director and Board Member of Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa's most successful clubs.
Her involvement with the SAFA Women's Football Committee and her position as Vice President of the African Clubs Association highlight her dedication to empowering women in football and driving meaningful change.
In a groundbreaking move, Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, made history in 2023 as the first African woman to own a professional football club in the United States. Under her full name, Temilade Openiyi, she became a co-owner of San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club.
From Lagos to San Diego...
GRAMMY Award-Winning, Oscar Nominated Nigerian singer-songwriter @temsbaby joins San Diego FC ownership group as a club partner. Tems becomes the FIRST African female to be involved in MLS ownership.
Read ⤵️ — San Diego FC (@sandiegofc) February 12, 2025
A Lasting Legacy
These remarkable women are not just shaping football—they are rewriting its rules and breaking new ground. Through determination, resilience, and vision, they are paving the way for future generations and ensuring that African football continues to flourish on the global stage.
Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that football is for everyone—and that the future of the sport will be shaped by talent, passion, and leadership, regardless of gender.