There goes a civil war in Sudan, yet the best football club in the country which is Al Hilal is playing a different role apart from the beautiful game. Though domestic competitions have been postponed due to the conflict, Al-Hilal still found a way to continue playing, providing a diversion to a country dealing with immense suffering.
“The game is on because we want our people to have something to cheer about and forget that we are at war,” said Dr. Hassan Ali, the Secretary-General for Al Hilal, in an interview with BBC Sport Africa. The ongoing fighting has resulted in tremendous loss of lives, displacement of over 2 million people, and a major humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Surprisingly, Al Hilal signed a deal with Tanzania’s Football Federation to participate in the nation’s top-tier league. This uncharted path is the way how the team will carry on with training, competing as well as and most importantly giving Sudanese a sense of hope and joy.
In Sudan, football as the second religion comes top on the list. Al Hilal, with its deep roots and many Cups and trophies in the country and continent, is a treasure of the nation. Seeing the national team showcasing their skills on the international stage is an emotional touchstone and a national pride amidst the chaos around.
A victory of the team on the pitch just makes the efforts of the organization larger. Hilal’s successes are a good example for a nation trying to stay positive when the country goes through difficult times. Social media explodes with success stories, giving a short-term break to war victims from everyday fears.
The influence of sports as a therapeutic tool and a means for the nations to find each other in times of challenge is seen. When Al Hilal decided to keep playing even though they moved outside Sudan, it proved that sometimes sports have a power that unites people.
Even though the obstacles are enormous. The crisis is ongoing and it has led to the displacement of millions of people. This should be met with the world’s attention to save lives. Al Hilal’s respite meanwhile, however, is short-lived since Sudanese most of them still face the hard realities.
However, despite the limitations, Al Hilal’s effort to create a diversion and a source of national pride is commendable. It demonstrates how significant sport can be, even when the adversity is the greatest.
Through such victories on the field, alongside other efforts, we can make way for Sudanian peace and stability. Until now, the group will stayed as a lighthouse that gives shelter even just for a moment through the lovely game.
