When Tori Penso blew the whistle to start the clash between the Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta, it wasn’t just the start of another team. It was history in the making when women played a major role in football’s biggest event. Along with assistant coaches Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt, Penso became the second female representative to participate in the men’s World Cup, following in the footsteps of French player Stephanie Frappart at the Qatar World Cup in 2022.For more than 90 years at the FIFA World Cup, there have been no female referees in charge of the world’s top matches. Now, there are six in one edition, all ready to prove that they are as good as anyone in the business. This is true empowerment of women.Penso came and did well. His hope was good. He was in the right place, at the right time, and a few short runs showed that his body was in top form. It looks easy on TV, but stopping, stopping takes effort. It is a tax. But when the counter-attack is launched, it is easy to run the distance with the same tempo.
This is a big move for women advocates. The professional training of women’s sports has greatly contributed to the new ability of women’s sports to lead at the highest level. Credit to FIFA for making the right decision, after extensive training, consultation and advice over the years. Much credit to them for relying on mothers to give birth.They chose well.Penso has become one of the world’s top executives. But having been a referee tester and a player consultant for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) myself, I believe that they have to work hard. You will be surprised to know that the focus of being on the World Cup, the pinnacle of every player, is so much that you can’t afford even a small picnic. Your fitness is monitored every day.Physical preparation is not the need of the hour. You need to understand the game well. With the world watching, there is no chance of offense.You also need to have the right attitude. Fitness can be achieved with rigorous training, you can read the rules of the game, but the mind cannot be acted upon. It is within you; everything is in your hands, or rather your thoughts. Above all, that’s what matters most.I am glad that it was a mistake from a group of women leaders. They set the bar high and proved that women can serve at a higher level. Yes, it is not easy for a woman in a man’s sport, but if there is an example of how women can do the job well, it was before us. Penso is an inspiration to female musicians around the world.This isn’t the only time you’ll be watching the women’s referees at the men’s World Cup. Penso and others have confirmed that there is more to come.(Former Indian captain and FIFA observer, Maria Rebello spoke to Marcus Mergulhao)
