Two English women’s football teams withdrew from a cup final in support of the people of Gaza, choosing solidarity over the championship title.
Solidarity with Palestine in Football Stadiums Grows
Support for Palestine continues to rise in football stadiums across the world. According to The Telegraph, players and supporters from Clapton Community FC Women and Dulwich Hamlet Reserves decided not to continue with the final match as an act of solidarity with Gaza. Both teams were set to compete in the London Women’s Football Cup Final.
The “Show Israel the Red Card” campaign has been carried out in 85 stadiums across 22 countries so far, led by football fans demanding justice for Palestinians. The campaign has gained momentum in grassroots football scenes and continues to receive global attention.
Match Halted Over Flags and Protest Banner
Clapton were leading 2–0 against Dulwich Hamlet just 20 minutes into the final at Gallagher Stadium (home of Maidstone United), when match officials halted the game. The stoppage came after fans of both teams raised Palestinian flags and a banner reading “Red Card to Genocide.”
Officials demanded the flags and banner be removed. According to The Telegraph, the organizers offered to resume the match behind closed doors, without any spectators. However, Clapton refused, insisting they would not play without their fans—many of whom had come to show support for Palestine.
Clapton later issued a statement saying, “Our players and fans showed their support for the people of Palestine, who are under daily airstrikes. A flag or banner is not a valid reason to remove a team from a cup final.”
The decision sparked strong reactions on social media, with many praising the teams for prioritizing human rights over football glory. In standing firm, the teams reminded the world that sport can be a platform for conscience, not just competition.
From: fars