Palestinian Football Team Seeks World Cup Glory Amidst Gaza Devastation
The Palestinian national football team is on a mission to qualify for their first ever FIFA World Cup, a feat that would offer a beacon of hope amidst the devastation caused by Israel’s recent military offensive on Gaza, Al Jazeera reports.
Despite facing unprecedented obstacles, both on and off the field, the team, led by coach Makram Daboub, remains in contention for a spot at the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The expanded 48-team format for the tournament presented a golden opportunity for Palestine, but securing a place remains a challenging task. Currently bottom of Group B with two points from four matches, the team faces a crucial showdown against Oman in Muscat on November 14.
Their match against group-leading South Korea, scheduled for five days later, will take place in Amman, Jordan, as Palestine has been unable to host an international match in Jerusalem for the past five years.
A World Cup appearance would not only be a historic achievement but also provide a much-needed financial boost for the PFA, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. The team has shown encouraging signs in the third phase of Asian qualifying, securing a surprise draw against South Korea in Seoul in their group opener and drawing against Kuwait last month.
While a direct ticket to the finals is unlikely, Palestine still has a chance to advance to another round of playoffs by finishing third or fourth in the group. They are currently just one point behind fourth-placed Oman.
