Football: Al-Ansar Dominates the Season and Wins Its 15th Title
Hassan Maatouk (number 10) celebrates Al-Ansar’s second goal — a title-winning and historic strike. ©Lebanese Football Federation

It's done! At the end of a tense season marked by a thrilling long-distance duel with Safa, Al-Ansar was crowned Lebanese champion for the 15th time in its history, a national record. The Greens sealed their title on Saturday, beating Tadamon Sour 2-0 at the Fouad Chehab Stadium in Jounieh on the 24th match day.

Buoyed by their fans and an experienced squad, Al-Ansar did not falter. The first goal came in the 40th minute, scored by Algerian Hicham Khalfallah, who was well served by an inspired backheel from Palestinian Mohammad Habbous. In the second half, captain Hassan Maatouk sealed the match with a powerful strike (61') after receiving a brilliant pass from Khalfallah.

Maatouk Makes History

In addition to the team title, the evening was also historic for Hassan Maatouk, who joined Fadi Alloush at the top of the Lebanese league's all-time scoring charts with 120 goals. He thus surpassed Vartan Ghazarian (119 goals) and further cemented his place in the history books.

In all competitions, the Lebanese international has scored 279 goals in his career, playing for Ansar, Ahed, Nejmeh, and several Emirati clubs.

Dragan Doubles His Tally

Serbian coach Dragan has won his second consecutive Lebanese league title, after winning last season with Nejmeh. This is a rare achievement, confirming his influence on local football. For the record, it was Chabab Sahel who first brought him to Lebanon.

An Extraordinary Record

With this 15th title, Al-Ansar consolidates its position as Lebanon's most successful club, six points ahead of its historic rivals, Ahed and Nejmeh, each stuck on nine titles. Homenetmen Beirut completes the historic podium with seven trophies, but has just been relegated... to the third division.

Standings – Title Group (after 24 games)

1. Al-Ansar – 48 pts

2. Safa – 43 pts

3. Al-Ahed – 33 pts

4. Nejmeh – 29 pts

5. La Sagesse – 19 pts

6. Tadamon Sour – 13 pts

One Last Day for Honor

The 25th and final day of the season will be a last stand. Al-Ansar will face Safa in a meaningless duel at the top, while Nejmeh will meet Tadamon Sour, and La Sagesse will cross swords with Ahed.

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