Amal Jamal, who made history as the first Emirati woman to officiate at a professional men’s football game in 2021, is now set to add another landmark achievement to her career.
Photo: Instagram.com/amal.j13
The UAE Football Association announced that Amal Jamal has been selected by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (Fifa) to officiate at the U-17 Women’s World Cup. Jamal, who has been named on Fifa’s list of international referees, spoke with Fifa.com about the importance of her role in the 2021 men’s football game, and its broader implications. “This step shows society that women are capable of officiating men’s games,” the Emirati referee stated. “It demonstrates that there’s no difference between male and female referees in terms of technical skills or physical abilities.”
The UAE Football Federation’s choice to assign Jamal to a professional men’s match indicated their dedication to advancing equality in the sport. Because men’s games are faster and more intense than women’s, Jamal says refereeing men’s games has different obstacles, but both men’s and women’s sports have their own set of challenges.
Amal Bou Shalakh, a board member of the Emirati Federation and chair of the Women’s Football Committee, commended Jamal’s achievements. Bou Shalakh stated that the Emirati community has welcomed Jamal’s appointment and called it a “positive step”. She also stated that more female referees will be assigned to men’s games in the following years.
Jamal’s journey to become a premier referee has been fueled by her family’s support and persistent drive. She switched from playing amateur football at university to refereeing after being inspired by other professionals in the area. Despite initial challenges, Jamal earned her international accreditation in both 2020 and 2021.
Her family, including her father, a former player, and her brother Mohamed Jamal, have been her biggest supporters. “My family was supportive from the beginning. They never miss any of my games and provide valuable feedback,” Jamal said. “Their advice has been crucial in improving my physical condition and maintaining self-confidence.”
Jamal’s selection for the U-17 Women’s World Cup highlights the increasing acknowledgment of women’s contributions to football and solidifies her status as one of the trailblazers in Emirati football.
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