FIFA World Cup 2022: Who is the going to be the first woman referee to take charge in WC? Know here

The Group E match between Germany and Costa Rica is headed for history as French referee Stéphanie Frappert will be in charge of the match. She will not be the only female official at the match, as both of her FIFA-appointed assistants are also women—Nuzá Bacque of Brazil and Karen Díaz Medina of Mexico, making it an all-female refereeing unit.

Frapart was the fourth official in the goalless draw between Mexico and Poland this World Cup, but will take the field in Qatar’s historic 44th game. The 38-year-old Frenchwoman has experience of officiating in men’s football matches in the past as she has officiated in World Cup qualifying games and the UEFA Champions League. She is a regular in French football and was also on duty at this year’s men’s French Cup final.

This Thursday, the all-female refereeing trio will take on the men @FIFA World Cup match for the first time.

Supervised by Stephanie Frapart will be joined by assistants Nuzza Back and Karen Diaz @fedefutbolcrc against @DFB_Team,

History is being made! pic.twitter.com/KusT7SOUn9

– FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) November 29, 2022

Two other female referees, Salima Mukansanga of Rwanda and Yamashita Yoshimi of Japan, were also added to FIFA’s pool of World Cup officials.

Prior to the start of the World Cup, Fraparte said that the inclusion of female referees in the tournament would “make things happen” on a wider scale, particularly for the host nation. Qatar has been criticized for its strict regulations on women and their freedom, as well as many other human rights shortcomings.

“It is a strong signal from FIFA and the authorities for female referees in that country,” she said.