Controversy after Rajoub accuses referee of bias in Palestine–Saudi match
WEST BANK, Jan. 01 (YPA) – The president of the Palestinian Football Federation, Major General Jibril Rajoub, made controversial remarks, triggering an official reaction from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
During a panel discussion at the Arab American University in the West Bank several days ago, Rajoub spoke about the Palestinian national team’s participation in the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar.
Rajoub accused Egyptian referee Amin Omar of being responsible for Palestine’s loss to Saudi Arabia in the quarterfinals, and directed harsh language toward him.
“Oh God, may God not forgive him,” Rajoub said.
He embodied every form of dishonor and disgrace in refereeing. Time will reveal what the price was.”
He further alleged that the referee was biased in favor of Saudi Arabia and refused to review several contentious incidents using VAR.
“I believe history will ultimately judge who wronged the Palestinian team in Qatar,” he added.
In response, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation issued a statement condemning Rajoub’s remarks as “irresponsible,” saying they included “unacceptable insinuations and allegations that call into question the integrity of sporting competition.”
@E.Y.M