The football fields of Gaza will never hear his magic again. Known to many as the ‘Palestinian Pelé’, the late Mohammed Barakat was more than just a footballer — he was a symbol of pride, resilience, and joy for an entire people.
On Friday, thousands gathered in the streets to pay their respects. Draped in Palestinian flags, his coffin was carried through the crowd as chants, tears, and memories filled the air. His family stood at the forefront, clutching his old jerseys — worn, faded, but immortal.
📌 Barakat’s Legacy in Numbers:
National Team Caps: 51
Goals: 17
Clubs: Al-Ahly Gaza, Khan Younis SC
Trophies: 4 domestic league titles
Palestinian Pelé
Barakat’s playing style was electrifying — lightning pace, deft touches, and a killer instinct in front of goal. Fans say he brought hope to the pitch, even when life outside it was full of hardship.
🗣 “He was our pride, our joy. When he scored, Gaza celebrated as one,” said his brother, eyes glistening.
In the crowd, children wore his number 10 shirt. Some kicked a ball in tribute, imitating his famous step-overs — a gesture that showed his influence stretched far beyond the stadium.
For Gaza’s football community, his death is more than the loss of an athlete — it is the loss of a beacon. But just as Pelé’s legend endures in Brazil, the ‘Palestinian Pelé’ will live on in the hearts of his people.
