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Despite the war shaking Lebanon, the Lebanese national football team is preparing to relaunch its Asian campaign. After months of uncertainty, the Lebanese team will face Thailand in Bangkok for a friendly match. A challenge both sporting and symbolic, marking Lebanon’s return to the international scene.

In a context where Lebanon is facing a devastating war, the national football team is ready to shine once again on the international stage. After a period of uncertainty caused by the tragic events hitting the country, the Lebanese team is getting back on the field with a delicate Asian tour. Thus, Lebanon will face Thailand in Bangkok on Thursday at 14:30 Beirut time in a friendly match, before heading to Myanmar for another friendly on November 19.

A Return to the International Scene After a Difficult Preparation

The last few weeks have been marked by major obstacles for the Lebanese team. The ongoing war has left its mark on preparations, and the inability to play the scheduled friendlies in October created a real fracture in the continuity of their program. In response, Lebanon intensified its preparation by organizing a five-day training camp in Doha, where the players fine-tuned their cohesion before flying to Bangkok.

This Qatari stay was essential not only to strengthen the players’ physical condition, but also to restore the automatisms that had faded over time. Despite being deprived of some preparatory matches, Lebanon is determined to put on a good performance against renowned opponents like Thailand and Myanmar. These matches also serve as a rehearsal before the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, which will begin in March 2025.

Reunions With Key Players and Emerging Talents

Under the guidance of Montenegrin coach Miodrag Radulović, the Lebanese squad has undergone significant changes. This Asian tour is an opportunity for Radulović to test his team ahead of the upcoming official competitions, with the integration of several players based abroad. Among them are Bassel Jradi (Bangkok United), Walid Shour (Brisbane Roar, Australia) and Daniel Lahoud (Panaitolikos, Greece), three experienced players who are expected to bring their expertise to the Lebanese team. These returns are essential for a team in rebuilding.

Unfortunately, Ali Tneich ("Sisi"), who is injured, will not be present for this tour, which is a loss for the Lebanese squad, already affected by difficult circumstances. However, the team can rejoice in the arrival of three new talents. Hussein Chakroun (19), Malek Fakhro (26) and Sami Merhej (17) strengthen the Lebanese attack, with interesting profiles and great potential. Chakroun, who plays for Hannover 96 in the Bundesliga, has been particularly noticed for his performances with the U23 team. Fakhro, already with 6 goals and 4 assists in 17 matches with Duisburg in Germany, could become a valuable asset in the opponent's box. Finally, Merhej, despite his young age, impressed with the U19s and is making his first steps with the senior team.

Thailand in Good Form

This match against Thailand promises to be particularly interesting, especially since the host team is in great form. Indeed, after their defeat to South Korea last March, Thailand remains unbeaten in their last five matches, winning four games, including a recent 2-1 victory over Syria last month. This match will be a true test for Lebanon, who will face a solid team with ambitions to qualify for the Asian Cup.

An Opportunity to Restore the Reputation of Lebanese Football

Lebanon’s Asian tour holds symbolic significance. Despite the war affecting their country, the Lebanese players are determined to give their best, both to honor their team and to restore the image of Lebanese football on the international scene. These friendly matches are more than just preparation, they are an opportunity to prove that even in the darkest moments, sport can be a vehicle of hope and resilience.

A Match to Watch Live

Lebanese supporters will be able to follow this historic match live via the Lebanese Football Federation’s Facebook page, which will broadcast the match against Thailand. A must-watch for all Lebanese football fans, who hope to see their heroes make an impression and lay the groundwork for an Asian Cup qualification in the years to come.