When Football Rose Up for Palestine
During the years leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, football became something extraordinary for Palestine.
From packed stadiums in Europe and Latin America to supporters' sections across the Middle East, Palestinian flags were raised, fans chanted “free Palestine,” and football became the world's most visible arena of solidarity for the 2 million people of Gaza.
Trapped in Gaza was Mohammed Balah, the “Ronaldo of Gaza.” Mohammed was one of the country's most celebrated footballers—a star of the Palestine National Team and the 2017/18 Best Player in Palestine, covered by the BBC and playing across the Arab World.
In 2022, he moved from Cairo to Gaza to marry the love of his life. Then came October 2023.
Mohammed’s home was destroyed.
In seven months, he moved his family of fifteen, five times.
All that mattered was survival.
The Greatest Football Story You Haven't Covered Yet
Why Journalists Should Care
Football is the world's game, and no story better captures the power of football unity and resilience than the story of Mohammed Balah.
From tent to stadium lights, Daring to Hope is one of the most extraordinary comebacks in modern sport. More than a football story, it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of sport to sustain hope in the darkest circumstances.
Daring to Hope is being released during the 2026 World Cup.
From War, Back to the National Team
Before the war, Mohammed wore the Palestine National Team jersey and played professionally across the Arab world.
