Palestine Coach: 'Received News of My Cousin's Death in Gaza Due to Cold Before Saudi Match, Our Mental State Was Very Difficult'

Ihab Abu Jazar, head coach of the Palestine national team, spoke about the psychological difficulties he faced before the match against Saudi Arabia, confirming that he received news on the same day of his cousin's death in Gaza due to the cold.

During the post-match press conference, Abu Jazar stated: "The videos we received from the tents in the Gaza Strip were a source of pride and honor, as we managed to bring a smile to the hearts of the Palestinian people."

He continued: "We received heartbreaking videos before the match. You cannot imagine the psychological state we were in when we prepared for the game. Our mental state was extremely difficult."

The Palestine coach added: "I received news today (Thursday) that my cousin had died due to the cold, yet despite that, we managed to bring a smile to the faces of these people."