Massive Turnout, Generosity Mark 'Stand With Palestine' Football Match

Education City Stadium in Qatar witnessed an impressive turnout of more than 27,000 attendees on Friday evening for the student-led 'Stand with Palestine' football match, which successfully raised over QAR20 million in donations.

The football showdown, held to support the Palestinian people, featured a spirited match between Qatar Academy Doha (QAD) and Palestinian school students, who played alongside local and international players, media personalities, and social media influencers. 

Notable figures such as Rodrigo Tabata, Yaqub Bushahri, Mohammed Saadoun Al Kuwari, Ali Al Habsi, and Yassin Ibrahimi joined the teams divided into Qatar and Palestine.

The intense match, lasting 30 minutes for each half, ended with a 2-2 scoreline, leading to penalty kicks. In the end, Palestine secured victory with a 4-3 score in penalties.

Rodrigo Tabata's early goal for Qatar was equalized by Carlos Tenorio of Palestine, with an accidental own goal by Tabata giving Palestine a temporary lead. Saud, a student participant, managed to level the scores for Qatar.

Qatar Foundation's Vice Chairperson and CEO HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, accompanied by dignitaries, excellencies, and ministers, graced the event, showing their support for the charitable initiative.

The 'Stand with Palestine' initiative featured a range of events, activities, and performances, including a musical act with a Palestinian theme and a display of illuminated drones. The halftime break also included prize draws, adding to the overall success of the event.