- 10:00
In Bangkok, Lebanon’s Olympic national team wrote one of the finest chapters in its history. With a resounding 3-0 victory over Mongolia, Anthony Maasry’s men secured their place in the final phase of the 2026 U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. This is an unprecedented achievement for a team of young Lebanese players.
In the sweltering heat of the Thai capital, Lebanon gave a masterclass in efficiency and control. Facing a tenacious Mongolian side, Michel Sfeir's players held their nerve and quickly took control of the match at Thammasat Stadium.
In the 8th minute, Danny Istambouli opened the scoring with an unstoppable cross-shot. Just before halftime (45+1), Istambouli doubled the lead with a spectacular brace. The game was as good as over. In the second half, Ali Elfadel, the exemplary captain, scored Lebanon's third goal with a pinpoint strike ten minutes after the restart, sealing the fate of the match once and for all.
A Qualification Achieved with Panache
With this clear victory (3-0), Lebanon finished second in Group F with seven points, behind Thailand but ahead of Mongolia and Sri Lanka. For the first time in its history, a Lebanese age-group team has reached this level of continental competition.
“This is a historic moment for Lebanese football. We have shown that we belong among the greats of Asia,” said the coach after the match, moved but clear-headed about the magnitude of the achievement.
The Eleven Heroes
For this decisive match, Lebanon fielded a solid and disciplined team:
Anthony Maasry in goal, Hussein Rida, Jad Smaira, Hasan Farhat, and Ibrahim Chami in defense, a compact midfield led by Hasan Fouani, Danny Istambouli, and Ali Elfadel, and a powerful attack with Shadi Jouni, Ali Kassas, and Nour Aoude.
The bench also played its part with valuable contributions from Joseph Elhajj, Mohamad Ghamloush, Ali Akbar Manna'a, Mohamad Sadek, and Hassan Bazzi to manage the tempo and maintain the score.
And Now, on to Saudi Arabia
With qualification secured, all eyes are now on Saudi Arabia 2026, where Lebanon will face the biggest nations in Asia. The goal is clear: to continue to surprise, with an ambitious generation that has already proven it can defy the odds.
Comments