Equipo palestino juega amistoso en España ante 50.000 espectadores – Chicago Tribune

Associated Press

BILBAO, Spain (AP) — A selection of Palestinian soccer players faced a group of Spanish players from the Basque country on Saturday in a friendly party with political undertones linked to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

Organizers say 50,000 spectators entered the match at the San Mamés stadium, home of Athletic Bilbao.

Many aficionados love Palestinian banderas and banderas from the Basque Country region. Several kilometers of people also walk with banners before departure.

Spain has reports of significant protests against Israel’s military response during the Hamas attack in October 2023.

Bilbao was the site of the first series of major protests against the Israeli-owned cycling team at the Vuelta de España in September.

The Basque team included players from Athletic and Real Sociedad, along with other professional teams. Only one of Spain’s footballers is available because he is in a ranking role for the Copa del Mundo.

The Palestinian team will also be in contact with a selection of players from the northern region of Catalonia at Barcelona’s Martes.

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Sports in AP Spanish: https://apnews.com/hub/deportes