Israeli and Syrian Fans Unite Over Brazil at World Cup Match in New Jersey

During a World Cup match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Nimrod Levi, a 45-year-old Israeli and passionate Brazil supporter, experienced a unique moment of unity with a Syrian fan named Woda. Both were cheering loudly for Brazil, Levi waving an Israeli flag and Woda holding a Syrian one, despite the political tensions between their countries. The two struck up a conversation about the game, sharing disappointment over Brazil's missed chances and Norway's Erling Haaland scoring twice.

Levi described the encounter as a rare example of football breaking down barriers and fostering human connection beyond national conflicts. They exchanged phone numbers and have kept in touch, discussing football and plans to visit each other’s countries, including attending matches of their favorite teams, Hapoel Tel Aviv and Syrian clubs.

Although Brazil lost to Norway and was eliminated early, the shared experience in the stadium offered a hopeful glimpse of peace and understanding. Levi reflected that while future matches, such as Morocco versus France, might bring different emotions, the bond formed over Brazil’s team transcended the usual divisions. The story was first published on July 7, 2026.