The streets of Gaza erupted in celebration following the Spanish football team’s World Cup victory, marking a moment that transcended mere sports. The backdrop of Spain’s support for Palestinian rights, contrasted with Israel's backing of the Argentinian team, turned the tournament into a significant political statement.

Palestinians gathered in cafes and outdoor venues, undeterred by the threat of Israeli attacks, to cheer on a team they embraced as their own. Many waved Spanish flags in tribute to Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation who previously showcased the Palestinian flag during celebrations for Barcelona’s La Liga win in May.

Key reactions included:

• Saadi al-Masri, captain of the Gaza al-Irada amputee football team, expressed, "I support Spain because we see it as a country that stands with the Palestinian cause and supports Palestinian rights."
• The Palestinian delegation to the United Nations shared an image of the Spanish team, proclaiming them “world champions.”

Spain has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, advocating for stronger EU measures regarding human rights violations. This stance was highlighted when Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defended Yamal against Israeli criticism for raising the Palestinian flag.

Despite the challenges faced by Palestinians, including limited access to power and internet, fans like Arkan al-Walaida sought match highlights, expressing overwhelming joy upon learning of Spain's win.

Al-Masri described the atmosphere in the packed cafe during the match, noting the excitement but also the underlying fear of potential Israeli airstrikes that curtailed celebrations. The recent death of Mohamed al-Wahidi, a local aid worker killed by an Israeli bomb, further underscored the harsh realities overshadowing the victory.