Ahmed al-Bozm, a 33-year-old Palestinian from Gaza City, knows exactly which team he will support in the World Cup final. He said he is completely behind Spain because they stood up for Palestine.
This view is shared by many in the Gaza Strip, driven partly by the Spanish government's positions during Israel's genocidal war against Palestinians and public expressions of support by Spanish sporting figures, including Barcelona star Lamine Yamal.
Al-Bozm sent a message to Yamal: "We support you wholeheartedly, and we hope you lift the World Cup trophy and raise the Palestinian flag as well."
Excitement is sweeping across Gaza ahead of the final, even though following the tournament has become increasingly difficult after more than two years of Israeli attacks. Former footballer and stadium manager Adnan al-Afifi said people can only watch a match if electricity happens to be available, as generators shut down due to scarce and expensive fuel.
To revive sporting life that has largely disappeared during the war, al-Afifi has been organizing World Cup-themed exhibition matches at the Palestine Sports Club in Gaza City, the only football club still operating and accessible to players in the Strip.
In May 2024, the Spanish government officially recognized the State of Palestine. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the move was intended to support a two-state solution and help end Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
Several athletes and coaches for Spain's national team, including Yamal and former Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, have expressed solidarity with people in Gaza. Hatem al-Maghribi, head coach of Gaza's amputee football team, said these gestures mean a lot to Palestinians.
Despite war, destruction and a deepening humanitarian crisis, football has remained an important part of daily life in Gaza throughout the World Cup. Al-Afifi expressed hope that local organizations will organize public screenings for Sunday's final.
Al-Afifi stressed that supporting Spain should not be interpreted as hostility towards Argentina: "We respect every national team. Supporting Spain does not mean we are enemies of the Argentinian team."
Al-Bozm predicted a 3-1 win for Spain after extra time.
Source: www.aljazeera.com