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Lebanon’s U17 women’s team qualified for the final phase of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in China after defeating Iran 2–0. Gaelle Abou Melhab (61’) and Sara Issa (66’) sealed the historic win, giving Lebanon its first-ever qualification and an undefeated first place in Group B (7 points), ahead of Iran, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Lebanon defeated Iran 2–0 on Friday in the Group B clash of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. As a result, the young Lebanese side secured qualification for the final phase of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in China, marking a historic first for the nation.
The game plan was clear from the start: a compact mid-block, pressing triggered on Iran’s first build-up, and quick transitions down the flanks. The trio Anabel Zihenni – Rama Moghrabi – Gaelle Abou Melhab controlled the central area and recovered second balls, while Yara Geitani and Avy Bakhos Douaihy stretched the opposing defense. Lebanon’s first warning came from a Yasmin El Habbal shot that skimmed the crossbar, followed by an Iranian spell before halftime, denied by Marie Joe Chebly’s firm save on a dangerous cross. Goalless at the break, but positive signs all around.
The Turning Point After the Hour Mark
After the restart, full-backs Christina Chebly and Gianna Frangieh pushed higher and delivered waves of crosses. On a corner cleared into the center, Abou Melhab followed up and struck a first-time half-volley into the top corner in the 61st minute — a clean finish that set off celebrations on the Lebanese bench. Five minutes later, Geitani won the ball high, immediately played it through, and Sara Issa slotted home with her right foot into the bottom corner for 2–0. Two textbook plays, two clinical moves — and Iran found themselves on the ropes.
Solid Until the End
Iran threw everything forward, but the defensive duo Joya Bou Assaf – Yasmina Nassar held firm. Moghrabi managed the tempo, Zihenni kept winning duels and El Habbal wore down defenders with her hold-up play. Lebanon almost made it 3–0 on a counterattack when Issa hit the side netting. In stoppage time, an Iranian header struck the bar — the last scare before the final whistle.
Winning Coaching Decisions
Coach Joseph Mouawad’s adjustments paid off: energized flanks, compact midfield and timely substitutions. The team stayed composed during pressure phases, showing remarkable maturity for their age.
Starting XI and Substitutes
Goalkeeper: Marie Joe Chebly
Defense: Christina Chebly, Joya Bou Assaf, Yasmina Nassar, Gianna Frangieh
Midfield: Anabel Zihenni, Rama Moghrabi, Gaelle Abou Melhab
Attack: Yara Geitani, Yasmin El Habbal, Avy Bakhos Douaihy
Notable substitute: Sara Issa (scorer)
Bench: Ghinwa Karam, Marie Jaffal, Calina Osman, Marita Chebly, Angy Boustani, Yara Abi Fadel, Jovita Boulos, Zahra Asaad, Rama Kharroubi, Zahraa Moslemani
Head coach: Joseph Mouawad
The Key Stat
Seven points from three matches, undefeated, best attack in the group and a more complete performance each time. Lebanon stayed true to its plan from start to finish.
Next Stop: China
This qualification is not an endpoint, but a starting point. By 2026, the goal will be to deepen the squad rotation, build physical endurance and gain more international exposure. The foundation is solid — a calm defense, hardworking midfield and dynamic flanks — and the next steps are clear: improve build-up under pressure and sharpen finishing.
Next stop: China, with the ambition to compete among Asia’s best.
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