The Norwegian Football Association announced that proceeds from ticket sales for the upcoming match against Israel will be donated to Doctors Without Borders to aid efforts in Gaza.
Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness expressed anticipation about meeting her Israeli counterpart ahead of their World Cup qualifying match scheduled for Saturday, following the recent peace agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Back in August, the Norwegian FA declared that all revenue generated from ticket sales for the Group I fixture against Israel would be allocated to support humanitarian work by Doctors Without Borders in Gaza. This decision sparked immediate backlash from Israeli officials.
“It is customary for me to meet with fellow football association presidents before matches. I believe in open dialogue, especially when tensions run high. These conversations become even more crucial during challenging times,” Klaveness remarked on Friday.
At the time, Israel’s Football Association criticized Norway’s decision, stating, “It would be appreciated if some of these funds were also used to urge the Norwegian FA to formally condemn the October 7 massacre, which tragically claimed the lives of hundreds of Israeli civilians, including children.”
In the early hours of Friday, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire with Hamas, paving the way for a halt in hostilities in Gaza within 24 hours and the release of Israeli hostages within the following 72 hours.
“We are genuinely relieved and hopeful on behalf of all parties worldwide that a ceasefire has been reached. Football pales in comparison to the value of peace. Now, the bombing over Gaza can cease, and hostages can return home,” Klaveness stated.
She added, “This moment is critical. It is imperative that football leaders and heads of major organizations rally behind this peace initiative, providing it with the necessary support and momentum. While achieving lasting peace remains a complex journey, it is a collective responsibility to nurture and advance this process.”
The Norwegian FA has collaborated closely with Oslo police to ensure security measures for the match, and Klaveness emphasized her hope that Israeli supporters will feel safe attending the game.
“Israeli fans are warmly welcomed. Our statements should never be misconstrued as being directed against them or as a lack of empathy for the trauma they endured during the horrific events of October 7, 2033,” she clarified.
“Condemning the attacks on Gaza does not diminish our condemnation of the violence inflicted upon the Israeli people.”
Currently, Norway’s men’s national team leads Group I with 15 points, having not qualified for the World Cup since 1998. Israel sits in third place, six points behind Norway and trailing Italy on goal difference.
