Palestinian players continue to nurture World Cup dreams despite war at home

Palestine, ranked 93rd in the world , has never come close to qualifying for the World Cup through the Asian Football Confederation. But with the 2026 World Cup expanding to 48 teams and Asia getting eight direct spots, Palestine will have a better chance of making history.

Palestine national team. Photo: GI

The Palestinian team has officially qualified for the third qualifying round and will play Australia at HBF Park Stadium today (June 11) in the final round of the second qualifying round. "There are many difficulties to overcome before we achieve our World Cup dream. Nothing is impossible," said Palestine player Mohammed Rashid.

Officials discourage political questions at press conferences, but players are willing to engage openly in conversations about the devastation in Gaza. According to Gaza’s health authority, more than 36,700 Palestinians have been killed since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7.

"Playing gives us the opportunity to raise the profile of Palestine around the world and the World Cup is the biggest platform for that. What is happening now is affecting all of us," said Rashid, a defensive midfielder.

While many United Nations members do not recognize Palestine as a state, including the United States and Australia, the Palestine Football Association became a full member of FIFA in 1998.

Until now, the Palestinian team has only achieved moderate success at the continental level. But in this year's tournament, with a disciplined style of play and a demonstration of determination from the players, the Palestinian team made a strong impression when conceding only 1 goal in 5 matches in this qualifying round, thereby finishing second only to Australia in their group.

Palestine have officially advanced as they are second in Group I, five points ahead of the third-placed team before the final round of matches.

It was a remarkable effort considering the team had not played at home since 2019. Players had to flee for safety and seek out tournaments abroad.

Rashid said not being able to play at home was a challenge for his team. "The last time we played Saudi Arabia at home, it was a packed stadium. People were climbing trees to watch the game. We have played 28 away games, it is difficult. But we always play for our people," he said.

Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub has been denied a visa to enter Australia. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was questioned about the matter in Canberra on June 10, and he said the decision was made by immigration authorities and departments.

Rashid and his teammates are hoping to put that obstacle aside and continue to give the Palestinians a boost.

Ngoc Anh (according to AP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/cac-cau-thu-palestine-nuoi-giac-mo-world-cup-du-chien-su-o-que-nha-post298840.html