Algerian midfielder Adil Boulbina has captured widespread attention with a deeply symbolic goal celebration during Al Duhail’s 1-1 draw against Al Rayyan in the Qatar Stars League on Friday.
The 22-year-old opened the scoring for his team, netting his fourth league goal of the season, before turning his focus to a cause beyond football.
After scoring, Boulbina tucked his arms inside his jersey in a striking and unusual gesture. The celebration was a tribute to a young Palestinian child who had accompanied the players onto the pitch, a child who had lost both arms as a result of the conflict in Gaza.
Through this gesture, the Algerian international aimed to highlight the suffering of civilians affected by the ongoing war and to raise awareness of the hardships endured daily in the region.
Boulbina’s act resonated strongly on social media, quickly going viral and drawing widespread praise. In Algeria, where public support for the Palestinian cause is significant, fans and commentators alike lauded the midfielder for using his platform to deliver a powerful message of solidarity.
The gesture follows an impressive season for Boulbina in Qatar, building on his performances for Al Duhail and his role in Algeria’s national team.
He was notably instrumental in Algeria’s qualification victory against DR Congo in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
While his on-field contributions continue to impress, it is this moment of empathy and awareness that has firmly captured the public’s imagination.
The celebration has sparked conversations about the role of athletes in raising awareness for humanitarian issues, demonstrating how football can transcend sport to address broader social and political concerns.
As Boulbina continues his season in Qatar, his goal and its accompanying tribute have left an enduring impression, blending athletic achievement with a poignant message of compassion.
Après son but face à Al Rayyan, Adel Boulbina a rendu un hommage fort.
Sa célébration était dédiée à un enfant gazaoui présent avant le match, victime des frappes de l’armée d’occupation sur Gaza, qui ont entraîné la perte de ses deux bras.
Un bon joueur et une bonne personne pic.twitter.com/aOVE3RpAdN
— Chebli Ishaq (@IshaqChebli) January 30, 2026
