Source: FIFA
Security & Justice
Mawlawi Boosts Security Measures Amid Rising Crimes, Calls for Stronger Border Coordination
Caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi said on Monday that security agencies are effectively carrying out their duties, stressing that recent crimes are not security-related acts but rather one driven by psychological or neurological factors.
Monday, February 3, 2025
Israel Steps Up Intelligence Efforts in Southern Lebanon to Counter Hezbollah's Reestablishment
Israeli Channel 12 has reported an uptick in intelligence operations in southern Lebanon as Israel seeks to detect and counter any potential repositioning efforts by Hezbollah in the region. This comes as the Israeli military remains on high alert over the possibility of the Iran-backed group reestablishing itself along the volatile Lebanese-Israeli border.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Opinion
Saudi Arabia’s View of Lebanon’s Political Process
When the then-commander of the Lebanese army, Joseph Aoun, visited Saudi Arabia last December and was received by Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, it was no ordinary visit. It was an indication that Riyadh had actively resumed a positive role regarding Lebanon’s security and stability — especially given the devastating Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon. With its political and economic capabilities, Saudi Arabia engaged in diplomatic efforts to stop the war and support the affected Arab countries.
Monday, February 3, 2025
Israeli-Saudi Normalization Is Within Reach. Here’s What Trump and Netanyahu Need to Do Next.
High on the agenda of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House this week is a potential deal to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Trump wants to move fast on it, having dispatched his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to Riyadh both during the transition and last week.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Sports
Milan Signs Giménez from Feyenoord, Forward Could Face Former Club Next Week
AC Milan completed the purchase of Santiago Giménez from Feyenoord on Monday, and the Mexico forward could face his old club next week.
Monday, February 3, 2025
Spain’s Hermoso Says No Consent Given for World Cup Kiss at Rubiales Trial
Spain star Jenni Hermoso told the trial of disgraced ex-football chief Luis Rubiales that the forced kiss he gave her in 2023 “shouldn’t happen in any social or work setting”.
Monday, February 3, 2025
Tuesday 4 July 2023 10:48:46
Women’s Football in Lebanon Scripting Its Path to Success
Since its establishment in 2005, the Lebanon women’s national football team has been on a quest to make its mark on the international stage. While they are yet to qualify for prestigious tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup or the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, recent developments suggest that their fortunes may be changing.
With a renewed sense of purpose and growing momentum, the Lebanon team’s trajectory indicates that the foundations are in place for a promising future and it appears that women’s football in Lebanon is on the cusp of a breakthrough. The 2022 edition of the WAFF Women’s Championship saw Lebanese women finish as runners-up to champions Jordan, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
However, it was their exceptional performance in the junior category that truly captivated the fans. The Lebanese women’s national team retained the title of the 2023 junior WAFF Women’s Championship, beating rivals Jordan with an impressive 2-0 victory in the final match held at the Aqaba Stadium in Jordan on January 10, 2023.
This triumph was no stroke of luck. The Lebanese women’s football programme has shown consistent progress, with previous successes in the 2019 edition of the junior championship held in Amman, Jordan. The team’s ability to retain the title demonstrates that the pieces of the puzzle are finally falling into place. Leading up to the tournament, the Lebanese junior national team’s coach, Sahar Dabouq, expressed her team’s determination to preserve their crown.
She emphasised the importance of player development and outlined their thorough preparations, including numerous friendly matches. These meticulous efforts bore fruit as the team showcased their skill, resilience, and exceptional teamwork, ultimately emerging as the champions once again. The final against Jordan would certainly be etched in the memories of both players and fans alike. Cecile Iskandar and Lea Haj Ali rose to the occasion, scoring pivotal goals in the 28th and 60th minutes, respectively, securing the team’s victory.
The collective effort and unwavering determination displayed by the Lebanese team highlighted its indomitable spirit and hunger for success. During the group stage, Lebanon’s dominance was undeniable. Topping their group with an impressive 7 points, they outshone their rivals, with Jordan securing the second position with 5 points. The journey to the top began with a commanding 2-0 victory over Bahrain in their opening match, setting the tone for their relentless pursuit of excellence. They followed this up with a stunning 5-0 triumph over Palestine, leaving no doubt about their capabilities. In the final round, a hard-fought goalless draw against Jordan secured their place at the summit.
Not only Lebanon performed as a unit, but there were a few individual performances as well. Lebanon’s Cecile Iskandar received the tournament’s top scorer award while Marcel Skiki’s outstanding contributions as the team’s ’keeper earned her the well-deserved title of the tournament’s best goalkeeper. In the inaugural edition of the junior WAFF Women’s Championship held in Dubai in 2018, the Jordanian team clinched the title, with Lebanon finishing as runners-up, followed by the Palestinian team in third place and Bahrain in fourth. Lebanon’s upward trajectory since then underscores their commitment to success.
The country’s triumph in the world of women’s football also extends far beyond the boundaries of the sport. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes across the nation, validating their dreams and igniting a fervent passion for the beautiful game. The team's dedication, hard work, and continuous improvement have created an environment where success is now not only a possibility but also an expectation.
