A Return to the Pitch After Two Years

After more than two years without competitive football, veteran players in Gaza have returned to the field for a Ramadan tournament organized by the Palestinian Association of Veteran Athletes and sponsored by the UAE’s “Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3” (Knightly Charger 3) initiative. The tournament, taking place at the Nuseirat Services Club hall, features 20 teams and is drawing large crowds.

More Than Just a Game

The tournament represents a glimmer of hope for football fans in Gaza, according to Saeb Jundia, a prominent Palestinian football star and former national team captain. He emphasized that any sporting activity currently taking place in Gaza is an achievement in itself given the extensive damage to sporting facilities and the loss of life experienced during recent conflicts.

“We often reached moments when we felt that simply gathering and playing football again in Gaza had become impossible due to the impact of the war of genocide and brutal aggression, so everyone was happy and excited to either play or attend the matches.”

Jamal Al-Houli, Palestinian football star and captain of the Rafah veterans team

Jamal Al-Houli, captain of the Rafah veterans team, described the championship as a message that expresses will, challenge, and an attempt to restore memories from before the war of genocide. He acknowledged the challenges ahead in fully restoring football activity in Gaza, noting the destruction of stadiums and the loss of players.

Early Match Results

The tournament commenced with an exciting match between Shabab Rafah and Khadamat Al-Nuseirat, with Shabab Rafah securing a 2-1 victory. Goals were scored by Jamal Al-Houli and Saeed Al-Sabakhi for Shabab Rafah, while Farid Al-Hawajri scored for Al-Nuseirat. Other early results include a 1-1 draw between the Union of Journalists team and Ittihad Deir al-Balah, a 2-1 win for Palestinian Al-Ahly over Qadam Jabalia, and a clean-sheet victory for Al-Maghazi Services against Al-Tarabat.

Financial Support and Prizes

A total of 30,000 shekels in prize money will be awarded to the top four teams: 10,000 shekels for first place, 8,000 shekels for second, 6,000 shekels for third, and 4,000 shekels for fourth. Additional awards will be presented to the top scorer, best player, best goalkeeper, and best referee. Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3 is providing logistical support to all participating teams, players, referees, and the organizing committee.

FAQ

• What is Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3? It is a UAE initiative sponsoring the Gaza Ramadan Football Tournament for Veteran Players.
• How many teams are participating? 20 teams from across Gaza’s governorates are taking part.
• What is the total prize money? 30,000 shekels will be awarded to the top four teams.