Marie-Louise Eta received a letter of support from FIFA ahead of her historic debut as head coach of German men's team Union Berlin.
In a personal letter to Eta, Jill Ellis, FIFA's head of football, wrote: "The appointment of a female head coach to a senior position with a men's team contributes to the development of football as a whole and sends a powerful message to many girls and women around the world that they too can dream of working as coaches at the highest levels, whether in women's or men's football."
The letter also stated: "Taking on as head coach in one of the top five men's leagues in Europe is not only a significant achievement for you personally, but also a testament to your perseverance and tireless efforts, and to your and Union Berlin's contributions to the development of the game."
Eta became the first woman to be appointed as the head coach of a men's team in one of Europe's major leagues, and will take charge of her first match with Union Berlin on Saturday against Wolfsburg.
