- 11
- June
- 2025
Lebanon remains atop Group B despite a lackluster performance (0-0) against a resilient Yemeni side.
Scorching Heat
On the sweltering pitch of Jaber Al-Ahmad Stadium in Kuwait City, Lebanon and Yemen battled to a tense 0-0 draw—more about grit than flair. Backed by a strong Lebanese crowd, Miodrag Radulović’s men struggled to find the breakthrough despite a promising start.
As early as the 9th minute, striker Sami Merhej, given a starting role, came close to scoring, but his effort was cleared at the last moment by the Yemeni defense. Yemen responded four minutes later with a dangerous header from Abdelaziz Masnoom, brilliantly saved by a rock-solid Mostafa Matar.
Matar to the Rescue
Lebanon dominated first-half possession, with Walid Shour active in midfield and a solid backline led by captain Kassem El-Zein. But after the break, momentum shifted. Yemen grew sharper and took advantage of Lebanon’s fading energy, creating several clear chances.
Luckily for Lebanon, Matar stepped up with key saves. Radulović attempted to shake things up with five attacking substitutions—including Mohamad Haidar, Karim Mekkaoui and Malek Fakhro—but Yemen’s defense held firm.
Radulović: ‘A Valuable Point’
At the post-match press conference, the Montenegrin coach acknowledged it was a mixed display, “I’m not fully satisfied with our performance, but earning a point under these conditions is still positive.”
He also noted the absences of key attacking players Hussein Chakroun and Karim Darwich, while praising his squad’s fighting spirit, “I congratulate the team. Now, we focus on the next FIFA window with a clear goal, beating Bhutan.”
The Twelfth Man Showed Up
While the players tired, the heart was there. Hundreds of Lebanese fans living in Kuwait turned out in full force. With flags, chants and drums, the stadium pulsed with red and white. The players took time to salute them after the final whistle.
Lebanon Still in Control
With this draw, Lebanon remains top of Group B with four points from two games, ahead of Brunei (3 pts), who beat Bhutan. Only the group winner will qualify directly for the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
A Wall Named Matar
In a tight match shaped by fatigue and heat, Mostafa Matar was Lebanon’s hero. While Lebanon holds the lead, the team needs a much stronger performance against Bhutan to reach the continental ticket.
Comments