Palestine set for historic San Mamés friendly against Basque Country
Friendly between Palestine and Euskadi a symbol of solidarity with proceeds going towards Gaza relief.
Palestine will play on European soil for only the second time in their history this November. Football Palestine can confirm that the Basque Football Federation and the Palestine Football Association have reached an agreement to play a friendly on November 15th. Bilbao’s iconic San Mamés stadium will be the venue for Palestine last tune up before the FIFA Arab Cup play in match vs. Libya.
Palestine last played in Europe in 2009. A friendly match against Brussels FC was organized in May of that year to commemorate 60 years since UNRWA’s founding. The hosts beat Palestine 4-3 in a match that featured goals from Majed Abu Sidu, Ahmed Keshkesh, and Ahmad Alan.
The Basque team (commonly referred to as Euskadi) have not played a match since March of 2024 when they played Uruguay to a 1-1 draw. In spite of its intermittent presence, Euskadi boasts an enviable record posting 27 wins five draws and just six losses in 40 matches against FIFA opponents. In those matches, Euskadi has posted a whopping 103 goals whilst conceding only 63.
Basque football supporters have been vocal in their support for Palestine over the past two years with rivals Real Sociedad and Athletic Club the most outspoken. There have also been significant displays of stadium solidarity amongst supporters of Eibar, Alaves, and Osasuna as well.
As this match will be held during the November FIFA window, Ehab Abu Jazar will be able to call upon his best players. An official confirmation is expected to be announced in the coming days.