The First FIFA Women's World Cup Is Held

Setting the scene

FIFA had long resisted a women's world championship despite growing international play; momentum from the 1988 invitational tournament in China finally convinced officials to sanction a full World Cup.

What happened

The first FIFA Women's World Cup was held in China in 1991, with twelve teams; the United States won the final 2-1 over Norway on Michelle Akers's goals and relentless pressing.

Why it still matters

The tournament proved global demand for women's soccer and gave the U.S. program a platform years before the 1999 final packed stadiums at home. Memorable detail: FIFA originally insisted the event be called the "1st FIFA World Championship for Women's Football for the M&M's Cup."

Background

The United States won the inaugural tournament.