- 05
- Jan.
- 2025
Just days before the start of the Women’s Futsal Asian Cup qualifiers, the Lebanese team is gearing up for a significant challenge in Thailand. Through intense training sessions and demanding friendly matches, Lebanon’s warriors are dreaming of a spot among Asia’s elite.
The Lebanese women’s futsal team is about to kick off their Asian campaign in Pattaya, Thailand, where the Asian Cup qualifiers will take place from January 11 to 19. Drawn into a tough group, Lebanon will face Thailand (the host nation), Bahrain, Iraq and Palestine as they aim to secure their ticket to the finals this summer in China — a historic first for this competition.
A Well-Prepared Squad for the Continental Battle
For weeks, the Lebanese players have been refining their preparation on the court of Saint Joseph University in Beirut. Under the guidance of coach Maroun Khoury, they’ve undergone intense sessions and friendly matches against men’s second-division teams. This bold strategy aims to toughen the squad against more physical opponents and increase their intensity levels.
"We have a combative and determined group, ready to give everything on the field," says Khoury. With a roster blending experience and youth, the team is banking on their cohesion and ability to perform in crucial moments.
A Lineup Built for Success
The coach has revealed his final 14-player squad, ready to give their all to elevate Lebanon into Asia’s futsal elite. The roster includes:
- Goalkeepers: Elite Tanous, Perla Nasr
- Field Players: Christina Tikle, Maria Mansour, Riwa Ezzeddine, Sasha Bou Sreih, Rayane Rachid, Amal Salha, Marie-Thérèse Tikle, Lea Khalil, Sophie Fayad, Yara Srour, Malak Hoteit, Marie Joe Wakim
Each player brings something unique, whether it’s defensive discipline, offensive creativity or relentless effort on the court.
A Challenging Program
The road ahead will be tough for the Lebanese team:
- January 11: Lebanon vs. Bahrain
- January 15: Lebanon vs. Palestine
- January 17: Lebanon vs. Iraq
- January 19: Lebanon vs. Thailand
All matches will take place at the Nontaburi Arena, which is expected to echo with the cheers of enthusiastic Thai fans.
Lebanon Aims to Make History
Beyond the sporting stakes, this continental campaign holds significant symbolic value for Lebanese women’s sports, often sidelined. These qualifiers represent a unique opportunity for the women’s futsal team to secure a spot among Asia’s best teams.
Against formidable opponents and a demanding schedule, the Lebanese players must demonstrate tactical solidity and capitalize on key moments. Their goal is clear: achieve a historic qualification for the finals in China and prove that Lebanese women’s sports belong on the international stage.
The team is ready to face the challenge, driven by determination and unbreakable team spirit.
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