(MENAFN- Gulf Times)

• Mosab al-Battat, captain of the Palestinian national team, looks forward to the display of Arab unity and solidarity at the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 taking place from 1-18 December will witness top teams from the Arab world competing for the coveted trophy in Qatar. For Mosab al-Battat, captain of the Palestinian national team, the dream of leading his squad at this prestigious tournament is driven by an even bigger purpose, one that goes beyond football.
“Our goal is to reassert the importance of Palestine's participation in global events; to showcase the indomitable spirit of the country, its people, and its players. We are a team that represents the oppressed, and so we play in honour of their resilience and to amplify their voices. I am proud to play for Palestine,” said al-Battat, whose team will face Libya on 25 November, 7pm, at the Thani bin Jassim Stadium, in a critical qualifier ahead of the tournament.
The Lions of Canaan will be looking to secure their spot amongst the final 16 teams of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 in their match against Libya, following which, they will join Group A, alongside hosts Qatar, Tunisia, and the winner of Syria v South Sudan. For al-Battat, who also plays as a right back for Qatar Stars League side Qatar SC, the team's qualification in the tournament will be an opportunity to witness, once again, the spectacular showcase of unity and solidarity amongst Arab fans.
“I want to thank Qatar for hosting world-class football tournaments that have continually succeeded in showcasing the warmth and camaraderie amongst Arab fans, and their solidarity with Palestine,” said al-Battat, who made history when he led the national team to their first ever qualification to the knockout stage in an AFC Asian Cup in the 2023 edition held in Qatar.
Looking back fondly on the historic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the 32-year-old player said:“Even during the World Cup, though Palestine did not participate, we saw Arab fans waving the Palestinian flag with pride. It was heartwarming to see our flag displayed in the stands at every match.”
“If Palestine qualifies for the Arab Cup, I can only imagine the atmosphere inside the stadiums. We will be playing for a nation that lives in the hearts and minds of all Arab fans. We will have the support of all fans throughout the tournament,” added al-Battat.
Fans can purchase tickets for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, including qualifiers, at: Throughout the competition, fans will also be treated to a variety of entertainment and cultural activities.

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