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Former Palestinian national soccer team player Suleiman Al-Obeid, 41, was killed by Israeli forces while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza, according to the Palestinian Football Association (PFA).
The PFA said Al-Obeid was struck by Israeli “bullets” that targeted Palestinians gathered for aid distribution. The Israel Defense Forces has not commented.
Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the 'Palestinian Pelé'.
— UEFA (@UEFA) August 8, 2025
A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times. pic.twitter.com/wGSXCq2ceo
A Career That Inspired Many
Nicknamed the “Gazelle,” “Black Pearl,” and the Palestinian “Pele,” Al-Obeid represented the national team 24 times, scoring two goals. His most famous was a bicycle kick against Yemen’s National Team during the 2010 West Asian Federation Cup. The Union of European Football Associations called him “a talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.”
Losses in the Sports Community
Since October 7, 2023, the PFA reports that at least 662 athletes and scouts have been killed, including 321 members of the Palestinian soccer community — players, coaches, administrators, referees, and board members.
Clubs and Achievements
Al-Obeid began at Gaza’s Al-Shati’a Services Club before joining the West Bank’s Al-Amari Youth Center from 2009 to 2013, where he helped win the first Palestinian Professional League title in the 2010-2011 season. He later returned to Gaza, playing for Al-Shati’a Services Club and Gaza Sporting Club, becoming the league’s top scorer in 2015-2016 and 2016-2017.
Remembered by Family and Fans
Born in Gaza City, Al-Obeid leaves behind his wife, two sons, and three daughters. Fans and fellow athletes mourn him as both a soccer legend and a symbol of resilience.
For more on Al-Obeid’s life and legacy, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.