The Jerusalem Municipality dedicated a mural at Teddy Stadium on October 5, honoring Jerusalem residents Ori Danino and Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whose friendship during 328 days in Hamas captivity became a symbol of unity despite their support for rival football clubs.
Jerusalem-born artist Tomer Peretz, a lifelong Beitar Jerusalem supporter, created the mural, which depicts Danino and Goldberg-Polin together at a packed Teddy Stadium. Danino supported Beitar Jerusalem, while Goldberg-Polin was a Hapoel Jerusalem fan.
The two came from different parts of the city and different communities. Danino grew up in a Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) family in Ramot, while Goldberg-Polin was raised in an Anglo, religious family in Talpiot. Both had regularly attended matches at Teddy Stadium with relatives and friends since childhood.
Danino and Goldberg-Polin were abducted separately on October 7, 2023, and were eventually held together in Gaza. Returned hostages have said the two developed a close friendship and cared for one another throughout their captivity.
Goldberg-Polin lost his left dominant arm after it was blown off on October 7. According to the municipality, Danino argued with their captors during the first days of captivity, resulting in Goldberg-Polin receiving treatment that saved his life at the time.
Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh’s mother, said their relationship transcended the divisions represented by their rival teams.
“They became symbols of love for the fans of each team, and they ended up bound together— protecting, defending, advocating and breathing for each other. Loving each other. Helping each other survive. At the end of the day, all there is, is love. Two hearts. One city. Jerusalem. Together.”
The mural was dedicated under the leadership of Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and is intended to remain at Teddy Stadium as a symbol of brotherhood and shared identity.
Peretz portrayed Danino and Goldberg-Polin alive and laughing together in the stadium, surrounded by the football teams and city they loved.
