Excitement is already high for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar was an enormous success. The first round of matches in the qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup took place in March of 2023.

The first-round qualifying match between Palestine and Lebanon was one of the more interesting ones. Due to the continuing war between Israel and Palestine, neither country was able to host the match, instead the two sides clashed in the United Arab Emirates.

The game was a success for both teams in spite of the challenging conditions. Although Lebanon prevailed 2-1, what mattered more was that the two squads were able to get together and play football.

“I’m very proud of my players,” stated Lebanon’s coach Ivan Jovanovic following the game. They had a strong sense of morality and resolve. Although we were aware that the match would be challenging, we prepared properly and managed to achieve the desired outcome.”

Nor ħلدين Elderraa, the coach of Palestine, stated: “I’m proud of my players too.” They never gave up and played with great skill. Although we’re saddened by the result, we’re not giving up and will continue to compete to qualify for the World Cup.”

The football match between Palestine and Lebanon served as a reminder of how unifying the game can be, even in the most trying circumstances. Football may bring happiness and optimism amidst the continuous strife between Israel and Palestine.

Football’s significance in Lebanon

The most popular sport in Lebanon is football, which has a significant cultural impact. People may bond over football, and it can also serve as a form of escape from the stresses of daily life.

Lebanon has experienced a challenging time recently, marked by political and economic unrest. Many individuals have found inspiration and optimism in football at this period.

The national football squad of Lebanon has improved over the past few years and is now rated 101st in the world. The team’s goal is to make it to the 2026 World Cup, which would be a significant accomplishment for Lebanese football.

The Gaza conflict and Lebanon’s aftermath

Lebanon’s situation has been significantly impacted by the continuous conflict between Israel and Palestine. For many years, the nation has been housing hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees, and the current conflict in Gaza has made matters worse in Lebanon.

Lebanese football has been directly impacted by the Gaza conflict as well. During the conflict, the nation’s football league was halted for a few weeks, and several stadiums and training centers sustained damage.

The Lebanese football community has demonstrated remarkable perseverance in the face of adversity. The national squad is still getting ready for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as the league has restarted.

Football can cheer Lebanon in the midst of Gaza

The football match between Palestine and Lebanon served as a reminder of how unifying the game can be. Football may bring happiness and optimism amidst the continuous strife between Israel and Palestine.

The football community in Lebanon is committed to overcoming obstacles and carrying on with their passion of the game. Many Lebanese take great pleasure in their love of football, which plays a significant role in national culture.

Although there is still a long way to go in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Lebanon has started well. The squad is committed to making it to the World Cup for the first time in their history and has demonstrated that they are capable of competing at the greatest level.