Moroccan referee Bouchra Karboubi has etched her name in history as the first Arab woman to officiate a match at the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN-2023) soccer tournament.
Assuming the role of the center referee, Karboubi presided over a crucial encounter between Nigeria and Guinea Bissau at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on the conclusive day of Group A in CAN-2023.
This milestone accomplishment reflects the commitment of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to the development of women’s soccer, aligning with King Mohammed VI’s vision.
The FRMF’s dedication to fostering the sport’s growth is evident in the remarkable strides made in women’s soccer in Morocco, exemplified by achievements such as the U20 national team’s historic qualification for the 2024 FIFA World Cup.
The FRMF’s sustained initiatives and concrete measures have played a pivotal role in propelling the progress of women’s soccer in the country.
Prior to her role in the Nigeria-Guinea Bissau match at CAN-2023, Bouchra Karboubi, a police inspector, had already distinguished herself by officiating numerous soccer matches at both national and continental levels.
As the first Moroccan woman to officiate a Throne Cup final, she presided over the clash between AS FAR and Moghreb de Tétouan for the 2019-2020 title in Agadir in May 2022. Furthermore, she contributed to the 2023 Women’s World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.
On January 10 in Dubai, Karboubi received the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Prize for Sports Creativity, marking the twelfth edition of the prestigious award.
Recognized as the “Best Arab Football Referee,” she was honored for her exemplary leadership and performance as a professional referee, successfully directing international matches in high-level competitions.
