For two hours, Palestinians across Gaza, the West Bank, Jerusalem, and Arab towns in Israel found rare joy and unity as their national soccer team played in the quarterfinals of the Arab Cup. In makeshift cafes, restaurants, and even tents amid war-torn streets, fans gathered to cheer for their team, seeking relief from years of conflict and hardship. The match against Saudi Arabia was fiercely contested, with moments of hope and celebration as the Palestinian team fought valiantly, ultimately falling just short in overtime. Despite the loss, the game offered a powerful sense of communal pride and togetherness, a brief escape from sorrow and a reminder of shared identity.