FIFA Celebrates Women on International Women's Day

The Secretary General of the International Football Federation (FIFA), Fatma Samoura, praised eight teams participating for the first time in the Women's World Cup as part of the celebration of International Women's Day, today, Wednesday. She urged the players to take pride in their ability to inspire others. Haiti, Morocco, Panama, the Philippines, Portugal, Ireland, Vietnam, and Zambia are participating for the first time in the tournament, which takes place from July 20 to August 20 in Australia and New Zealand. Samoura stated in a statement, "Women see you... they are mothers, sisters, students, and athletes. Women who unite with the players as they shine on the field." She added, "This will encourage a generation of girls and women to aspire to achieve great accomplishments, to defend themselves, and to push themselves toward glory both on the field and in life."