The Lebanese national football team is preparing for a promising Asian tour.
After a period of uncertainty and interruption due to the ongoing war, Lebanon’s national football team is set to make its big return to the international scene. The November international break marks a crucial stage for the Cedars, who were unable to play their scheduled friendlies in Vietnam last month. This extended absence has been difficult for both players and coaching staff, but now it’s time for intensive preparation and determination.
A Strategic Training Camp in Doha
The team has headed to Doha, the capital of Qatar, where they are set up for a five-day training camp. This stay is vital for fine-tuning their tactics and strengthening the group’s cohesion before traveling to Thailand to face the local national team on November 14. Following that, another friendly is scheduled in Myanmar on November 19. These matches are not only competition opportunities, but also key moments for evaluating the individual and collective performances of the players.
A Renewed Squad with Promising Talents
Montenegrin coach Miodrag Radulović has called up a group of 26 players, including 11 who play abroad in competitive leagues. This list features the long-awaited return of several key players such as Bassel Jradi, who is shining with Bangkok United in Thailand, and Walid Shour, who is proving his worth with Brisbane Roar in Australia. The return of Daniel Lahoud, the talented winger from Panaitolikos in Greece, and Hassan Kourani from Nejmeh also strengthens the squad.
However, some absences will be felt: Ali Tneich "Sisi" will not take part in the tour due to an injury. This highlights the challenges Radulović faces as he works to optimize his selection.
The Emergence of New Talents
Radulović has also called up three new players who could add an extra dimension to Lebanon’s attack. Hussein Chakroun (19), Malek Fakhro (26), and Sami Merhej (17) are young talents who have impressed the coaching staff with their performances for their respective clubs.
Chakroun, who plays as a left winger for German club Hannover 96, is regarded as one of the most promising young hopes in Lebanese football. His first professional contract, signed last May, was followed by impressive performances in preparatory matches. With 8 goals and 12 assists in 32 appearances for the U-23 team last year, he has captured the attention of scouts with his speed and technical abilities.
Meanwhile, Fakhro has made a name for himself at German club Duisburg. With 6 goals and 4 assists in 17 matches this season, his sharp eye for goal and physical power make him a valuable asset in the opposition’s penalty area. His career reflects his ability to perform under pressure.
Although still very young, Merhej has already shown surprising maturity on the field. Born in Colombia but representing Lebanon internationally, he impressed during training sessions ahead of the Merdeka Cup in Malaysia. His experience with the U-19 team and his recent selection for a training camp with the Colombian U-20 team show his potential.
A Determined Team Aiming to Shine
This Asian tour represents more than just a series of friendly matches for Lebanon; it is an opportunity to restore the reputation of Lebanese football on the international stage during such a turbulent period. Despite the war severely impacting Lebanon, the Cedars are defying the war, danger, and uncertainties that surround them. This fighting spirit and resilience are at the core of their sporting approach. The players are determined to show that sport can transcend hardships and send a message of hope in such a difficult context. It’s up to them to make an impression and lay the foundations for a promising footballing future. Fingers crossed.
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