Al Ahed SC 1-1 Al Ansar SC: Beirut Derby Ends All Square in Lebanese Premier League

Date: 25 July 2026 | Venue: Al‑Ahed Stadium, Beirut

The first Beirut derby of the 2026‑27 Lebanese Premier League season ended in a pulsating 1-1 draw as defending champions Al Ahed SC and perennial title rivals Al Ansar SC shared the spoils. A fierce contest in front of a packed crowd saw both sides create chances, with the result keeping both clubs in the early‑season hunt.

Match Overview

Al Ahed, who have dominated Lebanese football in recent years, entered the match as favourites. However, Al Ansar – the most decorated club in Lebanon with 13 league titles – showed they remain a force. The game was scrappy in the first half, with heavy tackles and a frantic pace reflecting the derby atmosphere.

Key Moments

• 18' – Goal (0-1): Al Ansar stunned the home crowd with a quick counter‑attack. Winger Muhammad Omar cut in from the right and unleashed a powerful drive that nestled into the top corner, giving goalkeeper Mostafa Matar no chance.
• 54' – Goal (1-1): Al Ahed responded after the break. Striker Fadi Hammoud rose highest to meet a looping cross from Hussein Monzer, heading back across goal into the far corner.
• 85' – Missed chance: Al Ahed nearly snatched a late winner when substitute Hassan Maatouk saw his close‑range volley brilliantly saved by Al Ansar keeper Mehdi Khalil.

Tactical Story

Al Ahed set up in their usual 4‑2‑3‑1, dominating possession but struggling to break down a compact Al Ansar defence that sat deep in two banks of four. The visitors’ goal came from a rare foray forward, showcasing their counter‑attacking threat. After the equaliser, Al Ahed pushed for a winner, but Al Ansar’s discipline held firm – aided by two late substitutions that added fresh legs in midfield.

Standout Performers

• Muhammad Omar (Al Ansar): A constant menace on the wing; his goal was a moment of individual brilliance.
• Fadi Hammoud (Al Ahed): The equaliser was his third goal in four league appearances this season – a vital contribution for the champions.
• Mehdi Khalil (Al Ansar): The veteran goalkeeper made six saves, including the crucial stop from Maatouk, to earn his side a point.

Season Impact

The draw leaves both teams in the top half of the early Lebanese Premier League table. Al Ahed remain unbeaten but will feel they dropped two points at home. Al Ansar, meanwhile, will take great confidence from a resilient performance away to the champions. The rivalry continues to fuel one of the most passionate derbies in Asian football.