South African cheers of “Free Free Palestine” echoed through Cape Town’s Athlone stadium as the Palestinian national football team played a friendly match against the Western Cape XI. The game, dubbed “Football for Humanity,” showcased South Africa’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and served as a platform for Palestinian players to express gratitude and hope.
Team captain Mus’ab Al Battat, beaming with appreciation, expressed his heartfelt thanks to South Africa: “We are very happy for the support to Palestine. Thank you to South Africa, the president, and the people.” He further commended the warm hospitality extended to the team since their arrival.
The stadium pulsed with solidarity as fans, clad in Palestinian colors, waved flags and chanted for their liberation. The match, ending with a 1-0 victory for the hosts, served as a symbolic display of unity against the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Battat, in an earlier interview, prayed for the injured and expressed his hope for Palestine’s liberation. He lauded the South African Football Federation and the government for the initiative, highlighting the warm reception they received.
🇵🇸 At the opening ceremony of the #FootballForHumanity solidarity match, held at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town, H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the gathered crowds, chanting Free Palestine! pic.twitter.com/pemS5BgH85
— Embassy of the State of Palestine – South Africa (@PalEmbassyZa) February 12, 2024Palestinian right midfielder Bashar Al Shobaki echoed the sentiment, praising the South African people for their support: “It’s like Palestine – people here support us a lot.” He expressed his admiration for the country, a vocal advocate for Palestinian freedom, and added, “Insha’Allah Palestine will be free.”