Sisters Make History as Wales’ First Muslim Female Football Referees

Eleeza and Rosheen Khan break barriers and inspire a new generation by championing inclusion and representation in Welsh football

By Abdullahi Yusuf

Two sisters are making history and inspiring a new generation of female footballers across Wales. Eleeza and Rosheen Khan have become the first Muslim female football referees in Wales, an achievement that goes far beyond the pitch, symbolising inclusion, resilience, and the power of representation.

For the pair from Grangetown in Cardiff, football has always been more than just a game — it’s been a lifelong passion and a way to give back. Introduced to the sport by their father, Eleeza now serves as Chair of the FAW Youth Council, championing inclusion and representing young voices in Welsh football.

“I want to be the person I didn’t have growing up – someone who inspires girls to get involved,” she says.

Rosheen, who started playing at eight and now coaches girls in Grangetown, shares the same drive: “Coaching lets me pass on my love for football and give back to my community. My advice to any girl is simple — just go for it.”

Together, Eleeza and Rosheen are breaking down barriers and reshaping the narrative around women’s football in Wales.

By becoming the country’s first Muslim female referees, they are challenging outdated stereotypes and showing girls across Wales that they don’t have to change to fit the game. Instead, the game is changing to welcome them.

Their work extends beyond the pitch as they bring girls’ football to Grangetown and actively give back to their community, serving as role models to many who never had such figures to look up to growing up. Their story is a powerful reminder of how sport can unite, empower, and transform lives.

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