- 19:30
In Hangzhou, Lebanon suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against Vietnam in the final matchday of the 2026 Asian Cup qualifiers. A harsh loss… but ticket secured: the Cedars finished second in Group E and clinched their spot for Indonesia as one of the best runners-up.
The Match
The Lebanese plan collapsed in 11 minutes. Under suffocating high pressure, Vietnam struck through Nguyen Da Hai (9’) with a powerful shot from outside the “D,” then doubled the score right after through Nguyen Thanh Phat. Still at a high tempo, To Minh Quang scored the third (11’) at the back post on an assist from Vo Ngoc Anh.
At the return from the locker rooms, Lebanon tried to push the block up and set its play from the first touches, without managing to crack Vietnam’s compact defense. In transition, Vo Ngoc Anh sealed the victory on a deflected attempt that surprised Karim Jouaidi. With a final score of 4-0, Vietnam secured first place in style.
A Useful Reminder
The Lebanese campaign had however started at full speed with a 2-1 success against China in Hangzhou (goals by Mustafa Rhyem 8’ and Mohamad Ossman 36’; reduction of the gap by Yakub Jiang Maimaiti 38’), before a 1-1 draw against Hong Kong where Lebanon had led thanks to Rhyem (15’).
Standing and Ticket Validated
At the end of the three matchdays: Vietnam 9 pts, Lebanon 4, China 3, Hong Kong 1. Vietnam earns direct qualification, while Lebanon punches its ticket among the best runners-up, in accordance with the format that rescues seven second-placed teams to accompany host country Indonesia.
The Starting Five and the Rotation
Lebanon started with Karim Jouaidi in goal, alongside Mohamad Kobeissy, Steve Koukezian, Mustafa Rhyem and Giorgio al-Khoury. Also featurng were Giorgio Makhoul, Mario Abou Jaoude, Majd Hamouch, Hassan Alame, Mohsen Mohsen, Hassan Maatouk, Ali Hamam, Ali Al Hadi Jammoul and Mohamad Ossman.
The team must head to Indonesia 2026 with a clear roadmap: a compact defensive block under pressure, better management of the fifth foul, cleaner build-up play and a more effective power play. The Cedars have the qualification in the bag; it’s time for adjustments to deliver a complete performance on the big day.
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