In today’s La Liga clash between Real Madrid and Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabéu, the spotlight was not only on goals and victories but also on a deeply moving moment. A young Moroccan boy, Abderrahim Ouhida, was granted the honor of taking the ceremonial kick-off before the match.
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Who is Abderrahim Ouhida?
Abderrahim is a teenager from Morocco who tragically lost his entire family in the devastating Al Haouz earthquake of September 2023. He lost his parents, sisters, and grandfather, yet his story has become one of resilience, courage, and survival.
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The Gesture and Its Meaning
Real Madrid invited Abderrahim to perform the ceremonial kick-off, turning his dream into reality.
This initiative was more than just symbolic; it was a clear message that football is not only about competition but also about solidarity and compassion.
It showed how the sport can bring hope and emotional healing to those who have endured unthinkable loss.
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The Impact
Fans and media across Spain and Morocco praised the gesture as a rare humanitarian highlight in modern football.
For young people who have faced hardship, Abderrahim’s moment serves as inspiration that even after tragedy, dreams can still be fulfilled.
For Real Madrid, it reflects social responsibility and the club’s ability to use its global platform for good.