A selection of Palestinian footballers faced off against Spanish players from the Basque Country in a friendly match held in Bilbao on Saturday, drawing approximately 50,000 spectators. The match carried significant political overtones, relating to the ongoing conflict and Israel's military actions in Gaza.
The game, played at San Mamés Stadium, home of Athletic Bilbao, was met with widespread support for the Palestinian cause. Many fans waved Palestinian flags and flags of the Basque Country, demonstrating solidarity. Thousands also participated in pre-match demonstrations, marching through Bilbao with flags and banners. Some signs read "Basque Country, Palestine — Free Lands! Stop the genocide!". A large banner depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu being kicked by a masked player, with the words "Israel is a terrorist state".
The Palestinian team's coach, Ehab Abu Jazar, described the match as part of a "mission" in Spain to advocate for safety and freedom for Palestinians. Abu Jazar, who is from Gaza, has lost many family members in the conflict. "I am from the Gaza Strip, from a large family in the Gaza Strip. We have almost 200 martyrs from the family. My own house was destroyed in this war," he said.
Yasser Hamed, a defender born in Bilbao who also trained at Athletic Bilbao, emphasized the importance of "giving a voice to Palestinians who don't have one, and raising funds to help humanitarian organizations". He noted the funds raised would help rebuild hospitals and deliver medicine.
The Basque team included players from Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad, and other professional clubs. Spain's national team players were unavailable due to a World Cup qualifier. The Basque Country won the match 3-0. Despite the loss, the match was considered a success, transcending sport to become a symbol of solidarity and support for the Palestinian people. The game formed part of large-scale solidarity efforts in support of the Palestinian cause and in opposition to Israeli violence in Gaza.
This marks the Palestinian national team's first-ever match on European soil. The team was greeted warmly upon arrival in Bilbao, with thousands of fans showing their support. Local clubs and sports organizations emphasized that hosting the match was a clear gesture of support for Palestinian rights. Before kickoff, Basque players entered the field with children, while the Palestinian team carried white roses to honor the Palestinian children who have died.
The Palestinian team will continue their solidarity tour in Spain, heading to Barcelona to face the Catalonia team at Montjuïc Stadium next Tuesday. Pep Guardiola, the Spanish manager and former Barcelona star, has invited Barcelona fans to attend, framing it as a global message of support for Palestine.
The match and surrounding events highlight the strong pro-Palestinian sentiment in Spain, which has seen major protests against Israel's military response in Gaza. Bilbao was also the site of protests against an Israeli-owned cycling team during the Spanish Vuelta in September. Proceeds from the match will be donated to Doctors Without Borders.
