My name is Bilal Saeed, I am co-owner of AFC Ann Arbor and co-founder of CLR Academy and active member of Sports Scholars for Justice in Palestine. I am working with sports journalist Leyla Hamed to raise money for the family of Palestinian football legend Suleiman Al Obaid, who was killed by an Israeli drone strike on August 6, 2025 while trying to secure food for his children in Gaza.
Suleiman, 43, represented Palestine 23 times, scored iconic goals for his country, and became known as the “Palestinian Pelé”. He was loved by fans, teammates, and his community.
Now, his wife Doaa and their five children are left alone, living in a tent with no income or support:
Naseem (17) – who dreams of becoming a footballer like his father. Before his death, Suleiman left him one of his football kits, telling him that if he ever passed away, he should keep the legend alive.
Inas (16) – a bright young girl with her whole life ahead of her.
Hamada (11) – still in school age, full of energy and curiosity.
Dina (5 years old) – a little girl who adored her father.
Asia (2 years old) – the youngest, who will grow up without knowing him.
Doaa wants to fulfill her husband’s dream: to give their children a better life and ensure they receive a proper education. “For us, Suleiman was everything. He took care of everything and always wanted to make sure the children never lacked anything,” she says. Thanks to football, Suleiman had travelled to many countries — a source of pride for his family.
Doaa does not have social media or her own bank account. For this reason, all funds will be transferred to Suleiman’s brother (her brother-in-law), who will ensure that the donations reach her and the children directly.
If anyone can support the family further — or help secure their evacuation from Gaza — please get in touch with me, Leyla Hamed, and I will connect you directly with Doaa.
If you ever need to verify the authenticity of this campaign, you can also contact me directly.
The funds raised will cover urgent needs: food, medicine, clothing, and the children’s education.
Suleiman gave hope to thousands on the pitch. Today, we can give hope to his children.