Amid the severe impact of Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza, Palestine remains steadfast in its journey toward qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The President of the Palestinian Football Association (PFA), Jibril Rajoub, emphasized the team’s resilience in pursuing a World Cup dream despite extreme challenges, highlighting the country’s determination to represent Palestine on a global stage.
Obstacles in World Cup Qualification for Palestine
Since October 7, 2023, following Hamas’s attacks on Israel, Gaza has faced an intensified Israeli military offensive. This conflict has disrupted life across Palestinian territories, with sports facilities, stadiums, and clubs facing destruction in Gaza. The PFA had to suspend the national league, and strict restrictions have hindered athlete mobility, preventing athletes from Gaza from joining the national squad.
“The restrictions on our movement, the suffocating policies by the Israelis have paralyzed everything,” stated Rajoub. Despite this, Palestine continues its participation in World Cup qualifiers, with the expanded 48-team tournament presenting a golden chance to qualify.
Palestine’s Path and Progress in the 2026 Qualifiers
Currently bottom of Group B with two points, Palestine’s journey includes a challenging match against Oman in Muscat on November 14 and a “home” game against South Korea, scheduled for Amman, Jordan. Due to political tensions, Palestine has been unable to host an international match in Jerusalem for five years.
While qualifying directly remains a challenge, Palestine’s performance has shown promise. They held South Korea to a 0-0 draw in Seoul and achieved a draw against Kuwait. A top-four finish in the group could lead to further playoff opportunities.
Determination Amid Difficulties
The journey to qualification is a beacon of hope for the Palestinian people and a potential financial boost, as each team at the previous World Cup received a minimum of $9 million. Rajoub noted, “We have the right to host. We have to overcome with our determination, our people’s resilience, our commitment. We have no other choice.”
Coach Makram Daboub and the team’s recent results underline Palestine’s resolve to make history. Despite disruptions, psychological impacts, and the loss of athletes’ colleagues and mentors, the team continues to pursue its World Cup dreams, symbolizing resilience and ambition amid adversity.
