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In a tight match against Jordan, Lebanon started its title defense with a 1-1 draw, setting the pace for its intense tournament.
Lebanon began its campaign in the fourth edition of the West Asia U-18 Women's Championship with a 1-1 draw against the host team, Jordan. The match, played Thursday evening at the Aqaba Stadium, was filled with suspense and emotions, marking a highly competitive start to the tournament.
A Controlled First Half
The beginning of the match was marked by a cautious approach from both sides, with balanced ball possession. Little by little, Lebanon gained the upper hand, dominating possession and establishing its collective play. In the 23rd minute, this dominance paid off: Lama Abedine, with a superb free-kick, found the top corner of the Jordanian goal and opened the scoring for Lebanon. A goal of great quality, as the Lebanese forward’s shot was comparable to Lionel Messi’s famous free kicks.
Jordan's Reaction in the Second Half
In the second half, the Jordanians, boosted by their home crowd, raised their level of play. They intensified their pressing and reduced spaces, which neutralized some of Lebanon’s attacks. In the 84th minute, the hosts' efforts paid off: a penalty awarded for a foul in the box allowed Hala Merrar to convert from the spot. With great composure, she equalized by sending the ball into the back of the net, denying Lebanon a victory.
In Pursuit of a Third Consecutive Title
Although the result of this match was disappointing for the defending champions, it aligns with the high level of competition. Lebanon, having won the titles in 2019 and 2022, aims to achieve the unprecedented feat of a third consecutive title. However, this draw against Jordan signals the significant challenges ahead for the team, coached by Joanna Hamzeh, who will need to adapt strategies in the face of increasingly competitive opponents.
The Lebanese team, which showed control in the first half, will need to adjust in terms of handling pressure and defensive solidity to hope for a new trophy. The starting lineup for Lebanon in this match was as follows: Marcel Skaiki, Iyana Rizkallah, Haya Najad, Paula Karam, Waad Raad, Elissa Hariri, Lama Abedine (Shireen Karnib), Yara Geitani (Tatiana Kanaan), Yasmine Hamdar (Luna Khazem), Angelina Saadeh (Shirine Hasnou), Leah Haj Ali (Lynn Moutran).
Clash Against Syria
Lebanon will continue its journey on Saturday at 3:00 PM (Beirut time) against Syria, in a match that promises to be explosive. After this match, Jordan will meet Saudi Arabia at 6:00 PM. On Monday, the Lebanese will face Saudi Arabia at 6:00 PM, before concluding the group stage on Wednesday against Palestine, also at 3:00 PM (Beirut time).
The competition will conclude on December 6 with two decisive matches: Saudi Arabia against Syria, and Jordan facing Palestine. Each match is a crucial step for Lebanon, which hopes to extend its reign and confirm its status as a powerhouse in women's football in West Asia.
The Goal: A Historic Three-Peat
Lebanon, the champion of the last two editions (2022 at home and 2019 in Bahrain), knows that the road to a third consecutive title will be challenging. The participating teams, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Syria, have strengthened their squads and will do everything to contest Lebanon’s supremacy. However, the team remains driven by the desire to defend its title with the same fervor and ambition as before. By integrating new talents and reaffirming its collective play, Lebanon aims to solidify its leadership and continue its rise on the Asian women's football scene.
The outcome of this tournament could mark a turning point in the history of women's football in West Asia. If Lebanon manages to secure its third consecutive title, it will further cement its dominance in the region.
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