By Mohammad Al-Omari
RAMALLAH, November 30, 2025 (WAFA) – The Palestinian national football team is set to begin its campaign in the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar, determined to represent the country with pride despite the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinian sports due to Israeli occupation and settler violence.
Palestinian sports, particularly football, have been heavily affected by repeated Israeli attacks on facilities and players. Many stadiums and training grounds have been destroyed, numerous players killed, and dozens arrested. Travel restrictions and over 1,000 military checkpoints have disrupted domestic competitions, including the Premier League, which provides most national team players. As a result, official tournaments have not been held for two consecutive years.
Palestine has participated in five previous editions of the Arab Cup but has never advanced beyond the group stage. This year’s tournament, hosted by Qatar from December 1 to 18 under FIFA’s supervision, features 16 Arab teams. Matches will count as official FIFA international fixtures, providing teams with approximately 50–60% more ranking points than in previous editions.
The team will face Qatar in the opening match, a matchup with added significance following Qatar’s 2-1 victory over Palestine in the second round of the Asian Cup, despite an early goal by Palestinian striker Adi Dabbagh. Historically, Palestine has faced Qatar 11 times, losing nine and drawing twice.
Under coach Ihab Abu Jazar, the squad includes key players from the recent decisive qualifier against Libya, with Oday Dabbagh and Adam Kaied rejoining after playing with their clubs, including Egypt’s Zamalek, in the CAF Confederation Cup. Notable team members include goalkeeper Rami Hamadeh, Wajdi Nabhan, Ameen Sawafta, Musab Al-Batta, Amjad Mahajna, Khalid Abu Heija, Adi Khroub, Hamed Hamdan, Mahmoud Abu Wardah, Tamer Siam, Bader Mousa, Zaid Qunbar, and Khaled Al-Nabris.
However, the team will miss several stars, including Wissam Abu Ali (Columbus Crew, USA), Mohamad Hebous (Al-Ansar, Lebanon) due to injury, and Ataa Jaber (Qatar SC), out since June with an ACL injury.
Coach Abu Jazar described the Arab Cup as a “critical milestone” for the team, highlighting the challenges of a tough group including two World Cup participants. He emphasized the team’s determination to fight until the last minute despite the absences of seven key players.
Defender Amjad Mahajna expressed pride in representing Palestine, noting the motivation provided by the support of Palestinian fans.
The tournament also provides valuable experience and preparation for the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Qatar enters the tournament with high morale after qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, though some key players, including top scorer Almoez Ali, Ahmed Al-Rawi, and Ahmed Al-Ganahi, are sidelined due to injuries. Coach Julen Lopetegui has introduced several young talents alongside experienced players like Akram Afif, Asim Madibo, Abdelaziz Hatim, Ahmed Fathi, Tareq Salman, Jassem Gaber, and goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham, forming a mix of youth and experience aimed at both the Arab Cup and the 2026 World Cup.
The Palestinian team will complete final preparations in Doha before the opening match, with high spirits and a determination to deliver a strong performance for the nation.
M.N
