Despite not being an out-and-out striker, Maraaba's tally of nine goals in 25 caps means he will be one of his country's primary attacking weapons as they look to improve on their sole AFC Asian Cup display four years ago when they lost all games and scored just one goal.
Nationality: Palestine Date of birth: 19/03/1992 Position: Midfielder Current club: Shabab Al Khalil (Palestine) Previous clubs: Islami Qalqiliya, Shabab Yatta, Shabab Al Khadar, Thaqafi Tulkarem, Ahli Al Khalil (All Palestine)
International Background
As coach Noureddine Ould Ali looks for a combination of the tried and tested alongside some fresh faces, 26-year-old Maraaba represents one of the more established names in the squad, with 25 caps and nine goals behind him already.
Maraaba made his Palestine debut against Saudi Arabia just after the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, and his first goals would come in his second appearance when he bagged two in a 6-0 defeat of Malaysia.
In the 2019 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, Maraaba was Palestine's joint top scorer with seven goals, including four in a 8-1 victory over the Maldives.
Style of play
Maraaba can play almost anywhere in attack, but he is at his best when operating between the lines when he plays. His role is therefore akin to a second striker or roaming attacking midfielder, with the license to roam around the pitch and connect all lines of play.
Once he receives the ball, Maraaba showcases his ability to drag players and keep it under pressure before using his skill and guile to release the ball to his teammates. Creating space for his teammates with his movement is arguably one of Maraaba’s best traits.
What to look for
Just like in 2015, Palestine have been drawn in the same group as neighbours Jordan, and they also face the difficult challenges of reigning champions Australia and star-studded Syria. They will look to collect their first ever AFC Asian Cup point.
Where and when to watch him
Palestine vs Syria
Venue: Sharjah Stadium, Sharjah
Kick-off: January 6, 20:00 UTC+4
Palestine vs Australia
Venue: Rashid Stadium, Dubai
Kick-off: January 11, 15:00 UTC+4
Palestine vs Jordan
Venue: Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Kick-off: January 15, 17:30 UTC+4
