Lebanese Football League Resumes Amid Challenges and Renewed Hope
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Lebanese football stadiums are once again alive with the roar of fans as the first division league resumes after a four-month hiatus. The pause was forced by the criminal aggression that shook the country, but the return of the league marks a notable step toward normalcy. The 65th edition of Lebanon’s most prestigious football tournament is back, but not without its share of challenges.
the President of the lebanese Football Federation, Engineer Hashem Haider, emphasized the importance of regular sports tournaments, especially football, in helping the nation recover. “The return of the league was a major challenge for the federation,” Haider told Agence France-Presse.“We tried as much as possible, with the available capabilities, to help the clubs and stand by them on more than one level, especially since manny of them are in areas that were bombed.”
A Changed Landscape for Lebanese Clubs
The resumption of the league comes with a transformed landscape for many clubs. The goals of participation have shifted, and the challenges are more pronounced than when the league initially kicked off. One of the most significant changes is the reluctance of foreign players to return to Lebanon.
The Senegalese striker Hajj malik Tal, who was the top scorer for the past two seasons with Al-ansar, chose not to return and rather moved to Oman’s Al-Nahda. Similarly, several Lebanese players have opted for foreign professionalism, leaving their local clubs in a precarious position.Defending champion Al-Najma, also the Super Cup holder, is facing its own set of difficulties. The club’s Ghanaian striker, Collins Obare, has refused to return, forcing the team to complete the first round without foreign players.
Clubs with Eyes on the Prize
Despite the hurdles, the competition remains fierce. Al-ansar is steadfast to reclaim its 15th title after losing it last season. Al-Safa, on the other hand, is aiming to bring the championship back to its coffers for the first time as 2016. simultaneously occurring, Al-Ahed is looking to solidify its position as a primary contender.
The league’s format remains unchanged.Teams will play the first round (first leg) before being divided into two groups (six-legs). Half of each team’s points from the previous round will carry over, and the teams will compete in three stages to determine the champion and those relegated to the second division.
Adjustments to the Transfer Window
The federation has made adjustments to the transfer window to accommodate the forced hiatus.The winter transfer period, originally scheduled for earlier, will now run from march 2, 2025, to April 2, 2025. This change allows clubs to regroup after the first leg and before the start of the six-leg phase.
Upcoming Matches to Watch
The second round kicks off this weekend with several exciting matchups:
- Saturday, 14:15: Baalbek Youth Group vs. Al-Shabab Al-Ghaziyeh in Bhamdoun
- Saturday, 14:15: Al-Burj vs. Al-Hikma at Al-Ahed Stadium
- Saturday, 16:00: Al-Ansar vs. Racing in Jounieh
- Sunday, 14:15: al-Safa vs. Al-Riyadi Al-Abbasiya at Imam Al-Sadr Stadium
- Sunday, 14:15: Al-Tadamon Sour vs. Shabab Al-Sahel at Abbas Nasser Stadium
- Sunday, 16:00: Al-Najma vs. Al-Ahed in Jounieh
This early summit between Al-Najma and Al-Ahed promises to be a highlight of the round, setting the tone for the rest of the season.
Key Challenges and Opportunities
| Challenge | Impact |
|———————————–|—————————————————————————-|
| Reluctance of foreign players | Clubs must rely on local talent, affecting team dynamics and performance. |
| Financial strain on clubs | Many clubs are in bombed areas, struggling with resources and logistics. |
| Shift in club goals | Some teams aim for the title,while others focus on survival or rebuilding.|
A Symbol of Resilience
The return of the Lebanese football league is more than just a sporting event; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope. As Engineer Hashem Haider noted, the federation’s efforts to support clubs and ensure the league’s continuity reflect a commitment to rebuilding the nation’s spirit.
For fans, the resumption of matches is a chance to reclaim a sense of normalcy and joy. As the league progresses,the challenges will undoubtedly persist,but so will the determination of players,clubs,and supporters alike.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Lebanese football league and follow the journey of thes teams as they navigate a season unlike any other.
What are your predictions for this season’s champion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Lebanese Football league Resumes Amid Challenges and Renewed Hope
Lebanese football stadiums are once again alive with the roar of fans as the frist division league resumes after a four-month hiatus. The pause was forced by the criminal aggression that shook the country, but the return of the league marks a notable step toward normalcy. The 65th edition of Lebanon’s most prestigious football tournament is back, but not without its share of challenges. In this interview, we sit down with Engineer Hashem Haider, President of the Lebanese Football Federation, to discuss the league’s return, its challenges, and the renewed hope it brings to the nation.
The Return of the League: A Symbol of Resilience
Editor: Engineer Haider, the resumption of the Lebanese football league is a meaningful moment for the country. Can you share your thoughts on what this means for Lebanon?
Hashem Haider: The return of the league is more than just a sporting event; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope. After the challenges we’ve faced, seeing the stadiums filled with fans again is a testament to the strength of our people.Football has always been a unifying force in Lebanon, and its return is a step toward healing and rebuilding our nation’s spirit.
Editor: What were some of the major challenges the federation faced in bringing the league back?
hashem Haider: The challenges were immense. Many clubs are located in areas that were heavily affected by the aggression, and some stadiums were damaged. We worked tirelessly to ensure that the necessary repairs were made and that clubs had the support they needed to participate. Financial strain was another significant hurdle, as many clubs struggled with limited resources. Despite these obstacles, we were determined to bring the league back, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved.
A Changed Landscape for Lebanese Clubs
Editor: The landscape for many clubs has changed since the league initially kicked off. Can you elaborate on how these changes are affecting the competition?
Hashem Haider: the landscape has indeed shifted. one of the most significant changes is the reluctance of foreign players to return to Lebanon. For example, Hajj Malik Tal, the top scorer for Al-Ansar in the past two seasons, chose to move to Oman’s Al-Nahda instead of returning. Similarly, several Lebanese players have opted for foreign professionalism, leaving their local clubs in a precarious position. This has forced many teams to rely more heavily on local talent, which, while challenging, also presents an opportunity for young Lebanese players to step up and shine.
Editor: How are clubs like Al-Najma, the defending champions, coping with these changes?
Hashem Haider: Al-Najma is facing its own set of difficulties. Their Ghanaian striker, Collins Obare, has refused to return, leaving the team to complete the first round without foreign players. This is a significant blow, but the club is determined to defend its title. It’s a tough situation, but it also highlights the resilience and adaptability of our clubs.
Clubs with Eyes on the Prize
Editor: Despite the challenges,the competition remains fierce. Which clubs are you keeping an eye on this season?
Hashem Haider: Al-Ansar is always a strong contender, and they’re determined to reclaim their 15th title after losing it last season.Al-Safa is another team to watch; they’re aiming to bring the championship back to their coffers for the first time as 2016. And of course, Al-Ahed is looking to solidify its position as a primary contender. The league’s format remains unchanged, with teams playing the first round before being divided into two groups.This structure ensures that the competition stays intense throughout the season.
Adjustments to the Transfer Window
Editor: The federation has made adjustments to the transfer window to accommodate the forced hiatus.Can you explain these changes?
Hashem Haider: Yes, we’ve extended the winter transfer period to run from March 2, 2025, to April 2, 2025. This change allows clubs to regroup after the first leg and before the start of the six-leg phase. It gives teams more time to assess their needs and make strategic decisions about player acquisitions. We believe this adjustment will help clubs better navigate the challenges they’re facing.
Upcoming Matches to Watch
Editor: The second round kicks off this weekend with several exciting matchups. Which games are you most looking forward to?
Hashem Haider: There are several key matches to watch. The early summit between Al-Najma and Al-Ahed in Jounieh promises to be a highlight of the round. Both teams are strong contenders, and this match could set the tone for the rest of the season. I’m also looking forward to the clash between Al-Ansar and Racing in Jounieh. These matches are not just about the points; they’re about showcasing the resilience and talent of our players.
Key Challenges and Opportunities
Editor: What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the league this season?
Hashem Haider: The reluctance of foreign players to return is a significant challenge, as it forces clubs to rely more on local talent. This can affect team dynamics and performance, but it also presents an opportunity for young Lebanese players to step up and prove themselves. financial strain is another major challenge, especially for clubs in bombed areas. However, the determination of these clubs to participate and compete is inspiring. The shift in club goals is also notable; some teams are aiming for the title, while others are focused on survival or rebuilding. This diversity of objectives adds an captivating dynamic to the competition.
Conclusion: A Season of Resilience and Hope
Editor: As we wrap up, what message would you like to share with the fans and the players as the league resumes?
Hashem Haider: my message to the fans is simple: your support means everything. The return of the league is a chance for all of us to reclaim a sense of normalcy and joy. To the players, I say: this is your moment to shine.Despite the challenges,you have the opportunity to inspire and unite the nation through your passion and dedication. Let’s make this season one to remember.
What are your predictions for this season’s champion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
