Hubbry Logo
Nejmeh SCNejmeh SCMain
Open search
Nejmeh SC
Community hub
Nejmeh SC
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Nejmeh SC
Nejmeh SC
Nejmeh SC
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Active teams of Nejmeh

Nejmeh Sporting Club (Arabic: نادي النجمة الرياضي, lit. 'The Star Sporting Club') is a football club based in Manara, a neighbourhood in Ras Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, that competes in the Lebanese Premier League.

The club was established in Beirut in 1945, and received its license in 1947. Nejmeh have won nine Lebanese Premier League titles, eight Lebanese FA Cups, 12 Lebanese Elite Cups, and seven Lebanese Super Cups. In Asia, Nejmeh were runners-up in the 2005 AFC Cup, where they lost to Al-Faisaly of Jordan.

Nejmeh is primarily supported by the Sunni Muslim community with a minority of Shiites and Druzes,[2] and shares a historic rivalry with fellow Beirut-based club Ansar, known as the Beirut derby. The club's board is affiliated with the Future Movement political party and the Hariri family.[3][4]

History

[edit]
Nejmeh's lineup in 1945

Nejmeh was founded in 1945 by the Druze and Sunni communities from Ras Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon,[5] as an association football club, with Anis Radwan as their first president.[6] This committee applied for a license at the Lebanese Government on 4 March 1947,[7] which was issued on 28 April.[6] The choice of club's name is said to have came on 11 October 1945, when a meeting was held at Radwan's house at night to discuss the affairs of the team.[6] Looking at the sky's stars, Radwan decided to call the team Nejmeh (The Star).[6] The five-pointed star is the Druze's religious symbol.[5]

On 25 July 1950, Nejmeh won the Lebanese Second Division, but were only officially promoted in 1951,[7] during which Papken Poyajian was appointed president of the club. They first competed in the Lebanese Premier League during the 1953–54 season.[7] Nejmeh finished runners-up in the Lebanese FA Cup twice: in 1951 and 1964, losing in the finals to Shabiba Mazraa and Safa respectively.[8]

Nejmeh lifted their first trophy, the Lebanese FA Cup, on 31 October 1971, when they won 3–1 against Safa.[9] Nejmeh's goals were scored by Jamal Al-Khatib, Hassan Chatila, and Mahmoud Chatila.[9] During the 1970s, Brazilian international players Pelé[10][11][12][13] and Bebeto[14][15][16] played matches with Nejmeh as honorary guests.

Colours and badge

[edit]

Ever since the club's foundation, the traditional and primary color of Nejmeh has been burgundy red.[17] The club's badge was composed of a star in the center, in reference to the club's name which, in Arabic, means "Star".[6] The two cedars on the side of the logo recalled Lebanon's national symbol.

In 2019 the logo underwent various changes: the star changed from white to gold, the cedars from green to burgundy and the text from burgundy to black. Other minor changes have also been made such as the enlargement of the width of the white border, and the shift of the text "BEIRUT 1945", which moved from the center of the star to underneath it.[18]

In 2023 the logo was drastically changed, with a more simplistic style being adopted. It became a pictogram of a burgundy "N" (for Nejmeh) and a "C" (for Club) fused together, with a gold star in the center. The text "1945" above and "BEIRUT" below are written in burgundy.[19]

Stadium

[edit]
Main article: Rafic Hariri Stadium
The entrance of the Rafic Hariri Stadium in 2022

The Rafic Hariri Stadium is located in Manara area of Beirut, Lebanon.[20] The stadium consists of a football field, and spaces that accommodate around 5,000 spectators, together with a VIP seats area that accommodates around 100 guests, a cafeteria, and a gymnasium.[21]

The old club stadium first consisted of a sand training field over the land number 704 in Ras Beirut area with no facilities or fences.[21] The stadium went through a rehabilitation process, with improvements including implanting the field with grass, increasing the seats spaces to allow more spectators, and enhancing the stadium facilities, walls, and fences. The first phase of the process started in June 2003 and was completed in late March 2004.[21]

On 21 February 2005, the stadium was named "The Martyr Rafic Hariri Stadium" in honour of the late Prime Minister.[21]

Supporters

[edit]

Founded on 9 February 2018,[22] Nejmeh's "Ultras Supernova" was the first ultras group to be introduced in Lebanon.[23][24][25] The name "Supernova" is a reference to the etymology of Nejmeh which, in Arabic, means "Star".

Prior to the Arab Club Champions Cup game against Al-Ahly of Egypt, played on 13 August 2018, seven "Ultras Supernova" fans were arrested by the Egyptian national security because of the negative connotations the word "Ultras" has in Egypt.[26] The fans were returned to Lebanon by request of the Lebanese Ambassador to Cairo.[27]

During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Nejmeh ultras were employed by the Qatari government to act as Qatar national team fans during their games. The 1,500 "adopted" ultras wore maroon t-shirts with "Qatar" stamped on front, sang the Qatari national anthem and beat drums while singing chants.[28]

Club rivalries

[edit]
Nejmeh fans during the Beirut derby at the Camille Chamoun Stadium in 2018.

The Beirut derby with Ansar has historically been the most anticipated game in Lebanon: both located in Beirut, Nejmeh and Ansar have shared the majority of titles. While Nejmeh has been more successful in Asia, Ansar holds the most league titles and FA Cups.[17]

In recent years another fierce rivalry has developed, between Nejmeh and Ahed. Also based in Beirut, Ahed have won the majority of league titles since the 2014–15 season. Tensions between the two teams have also forced the federation to change venues multiple times.[29] Most noticeably, in the 2016–17 season, Nejmeh refused to play against Ahed in the league title decider and were sanctioned six points by the federation.[30]

Another rivalry that has developed in recent years is with Salam Zgharta. Since the 2016–17 season, Salam Zgharta and Nejmeh have played various intense games between each other, with some escalating in offensive chants.[31]

Other important matches are with Safa and Racing, both located in the same city as Nejmeh.

Other teams

[edit]

On 2 September 2025, Nejmeh announced that acquisition of Lebanese Futsal League side Tawfeer Futsal Club, and changed its name to Nejmeh Sporting Club Futsal Team.[32]

On 13 September 2025, Nejmeh established an esports team.[33]

On 22 October 2025, Nejmeh announced the acquisition of Lebanese Women's Football League side ÓBerytus, and changed its name to Nejmeh Sporting Club.[34][35]

Kit manufacturers

[edit]

The following is a list of kit manufacturers worn by Nejmeh.

Period Kit manufacturer
1996–2005 Adidas
2006–2012 A-Line
2012–2013 Joma
2013–2014 Lotto
2014–2016 Jako
2016–2018 P4
2018–2021 14Fourteen
2021–2023 Jako
2023–2025 Kelme
2025– Capelli Sport

Players

[edit]

Current squad

[edit]
As of 21 September 2025[36]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
1 GK  LBN Hasan Haidar
2 DF  LBN Ali Alrida Ismail
3 DF  LBN Houssein Mortada
4 MF  LBN Mohamad Safwan
5 DF  LBN Khalil Khamis
6 DF  LBN Hussein Zein
7 MF  LBN Khalil Bader
8 FW  LBN Mohamad Omar Sadek
9 FW  GRE Marios Ogkmpoe
10 MF  LBN Mahdi Zein
11 FW  LBN Ali Kassas
12 DF  LBN Felix Michel Melki
15 DF  LBN Wadih Bewaridi
No. Pos. Nation Player
16 DF  LBN Hassan Chaitou
17 FW  SLE Rodney Michael
18 DF  LBN Kassem El Zein (captain)
19 MF  LBN Hasan Jaafar
20 MF  LBN Hassan Kourani
21 MF  LBN Ali El Fadl
23 FW  KEN Masoud Juma
27 MF  GHA Benjamin Bernard Boateng
31 GK  LBN Emilio Rizk
66 MF  KEN Teddy Akumu
71 MF  LBN Hussein Siblini
90 GK  LBN Antoine Al Douaihy
95 GK  LBN Mostafa Matar

Players on loan

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
— DF  LBN Maher Sabra (at Safa SC until 30 June 2026)
— FW  LBN Mohammad Al-Jammal (at Shabab Al Sahel until 30 June 2026)
— MF  LBN Ali Shaitou (at Safa SC until 30 June 2026)

Notable players

[edit]
See also: Category:Nejmeh SC players
Nejmeh's captain Ali Hamam with Lebanon at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup
Players in international competitions
Competition Player National team
2000 AFC Asian Cup Abbas Chahrour  Lebanon
Wahid El Fattal  Lebanon
Mohamed Halawi  Lebanon
Moussa Hojeij  Lebanon
2007 AFC Asian Cup Bassim Abbas  Iraq
2012 Africa Cup of Nations Osama Chtiba  Libya
2017 Africa Cup of Nations Hassan Wasswa  Uganda
2019 AFC Asian Cup Kassem El Zein  Lebanon
Ali Hamam  Lebanon
Hassan Maatouk  Lebanon
Nader Matar  Lebanon
2023 AFC Asian Cup Ali Sabeh  Lebanon
Maher Sabra  Lebanon
Kassem El Zein  Lebanon

Honours

[edit]

Domestic

[edit]

League

[edit]

Cup

[edit]

Continental

[edit]

Awards

[edit]
  • Best Team in Asia
    • Winners (1): March 2000[38]

Performance in AFC competitions

[edit]

In 1982, Nejmeh reached the Arab Club Champions Cup final but lost to Iraqi club Al-Shorta.[39] In 2005, Nejmeh reached the final of the AFC Cup and lost to Al-Faisaly of Jordan: this was the first time a Lebanese football team had reached the final of any Asian competition.[17]

1996–97: Second round
2002–03: First round
2004: Quarter-finals
2005: Final
2006: Semi-finals
2007: Semi-finals
2010: Group stage
2014: Round of 16
2015: Group stage
2017: Group stage
2019: Group stage
2022: Group stage
2023–24: Group stage
2024–25: Group stage
1990–91: First round
1997–98: First round
1998–99: First round

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Nejmeh SC

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Nejmeh Sporting Club, commonly known as Nejmeh SC, is a professional football club based in the Manara district of , , established in 1945 and officially licensed in 1947. The club competes in the , Lebanon's top division, and has secured nine league titles, establishing itself as one of the country's most decorated teams alongside rival Al-Ansar SC. Nejmeh plays its home matches at the Stadium, a 5,000-capacity venue in dedicated primarily to football. Known for its kits and fervent fanbase, Nejmeh has also claimed six Lebanese Cups and six Super Cups domestically, while reaching the AFC Cup final in 2005 as its most notable continental achievement. The club's marquee fixture is the derby against Al-Ansar SC, a historic rivalry that draws intense local passion and has seen closely matched results, with each side holding comparable head-to-head victories in league encounters. Despite Lebanon's political instability, including interruptions, Nejmeh has maintained prominence through consistent performances and youth development, recently clinching the title.

History

Founding and Early Years (1945–1975)

Nejmeh Sporting Club was founded in 1945 in , , by members of the and Sunni communities from the Ras Beirut neighborhood, with the goal of establishing an club. Anis Radwan served as the first president. The club, based in the Manara district, received its official license from the Lebanese authorities on April 28, 1947. Starting in the lower divisions of Lebanese football, Nejmeh advanced progressively, reaching the top tier by the early 1950s and first participating in the during the 1953–54 season. The club built its reputation through competitive performances in domestic competitions, fostering a diverse fanbase reflective of Beirut's cosmopolitan character. In the lead-up to the , Nejmeh achieved significant success, securing the in 1971 by defeating Safa 3–1 in the final on October 31. The club then won consecutive titles in the 1972–73 and 1974–75 seasons, marking its emergence as one of Lebanon's leading football powers. These accomplishments preceded the suspension of the from 1975 to 1987 due to the .

Impact of the Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990)

The , erupting in , immediately halted Nejmeh SC's pre-war dominance in domestic football, as the national was suspended amid widespread violence and the division of along sectarian lines. Nejmeh, headquartered in the Ras Beirut area of West under Muslim-majority control, could no longer participate in unified national competitions, resulting in no league titles or cups for the club between 1975 and the league's resumption in 1987. This 12-year interruption stemmed from logistical impossibilities, including militia checkpoints, shelling, and displacement that prevented cross-city travel for players and officials. Despite the national shutdown, localized football persisted in pockets of relative stability, with Nejmeh organizing informal matches and training within West 's confines, though attendance was severely limited by security risks and curfews. The war exacerbated sectarian divides in sports, confining Nejmeh's activities to Muslim enclaves and restricting interactions with East Beirut clubs like , which operated in Christian-dominated areas. A rare cross-line event occurred on an unspecified date in , when Nejmeh represented West Beirut in a National Unity Game against at Safa Stadium, aimed at fostering inter-sectarian goodwill amid ongoing hostilities; such matches highlighted football's occasional role as a or reconciliatory tool but did not restore regular play. The conflict inflicted broader damages on Nejmeh's operations, including player , enlistment in militias, or —though specific numbers for the club remain undocumented in available records—and deterioration of training facilities due to and neglect. By the late 1980s, as fighting waned, Nejmeh entered the resumed 1987–88 season as defending from the pre-war era but struggled against emerging rivals, marking the end of their uninterrupted 1970s success and ushering in a phase of rebuilding. The war's legacy for Nejmeh included eroded institutional momentum and a fanbase fractured by displacement, with overall Lebanese football stagnating as resources prioritized military efforts over athletic development.

Post-War Reconstruction and Revival (1990–2010)

Following the that ended the in 1990, Nejmeh SC reintegrated into the restructured , which resumed regular seasons after years of disruption and irregularity during the conflict. The club, like others, contended with damaged infrastructure and player displacement, but focused on rebuilding its squad through local talent and returning expatriates. Participation in the 1990–91 season marked a return to competitive play, though early post-war years saw limited success amid Al-Ansar FC's dominance, which included 11 consecutive league titles from 1988–89 to 1998–99. Nejmeh's revival gained momentum in the late 1990s under sustained club management, culminating in the 1999–2000 title, their first since the pre-war era. This victory, achieved with a squad featuring key Lebanese internationals, signaled improved organization and fan support that bolstered training and youth development. The club followed with further domestic triumphs, securing the league in 2001–02, 2003–04, and 2004–05—four titles within a six-year span—establishing Nejmeh as the preeminent force and ending Ansar's streak. Additional honors included multiple Lebanese Elite Cups and Super Cups during this period, reflecting enhanced tactical discipline and recruitment. On the continental stage, Nejmeh qualified for AFC competitions, participating in the 2000 Asian Club Championship and later the AFC Cup, where they reached group stages but faced logistical challenges from Lebanon's regional instability. By the mid-2000s, investments in facilities and coaching contributed to sustained competitiveness, though internal administrative changes, including presidential transitions in 2003 and 2005, tested stability. This era solidified Nejmeh's role in Lebanese football's normalization, drawing large crowds to matches and fostering amid national reconstruction efforts.

Modern Era and Recent Challenges (2010–Present)

In the early 2010s, Nejmeh SC achieved notable domestic success, clinching the title in the 2013–14 season, marking their eighth . This victory highlighted the club's competitive edge amid a league dominated by rivals like Al-Ahed and Al-Ansar, with Nejmeh finishing atop the standings through consistent performances in key matches. The team also participated in regional competitions, though without advancing to continental finals during this period, reflecting the broader challenges faced by Lebanese clubs in (AFC) events due to limited resources and logistical hurdles. Subsequent years saw Nejmeh secure multiple cup triumphs, including the Lebanese in the 2015–16, 2021–22, and 2022–23 seasons, bolstering their record as one of Lebanon's most decorated sides with a total of eight wins. These victories provided silverware during a time of relative stability in domestic football, often against strong opposition in knockout formats that tested squad depth. However, league dominance eluded them post-2014, as Al-Ahed emerged as the primary powerhouse, winning multiple titles and underscoring Nejmeh's struggle to reclaim top-tier consistency amid fluctuating form and squad changes. Lebanon's escalating economic crisis, beginning in 2019 with a sovereign debt default, exceeding 200% annually, and a banking sector collapse that froze deposits, severely strained Nejmeh's operations, mirroring impacts across Lebanese sports. Player salaries, reliant on foreign talent from and , became untenable due to currency devaluation, leading to roster instability and reliance on domestic youth; sponsorships dwindled as corporate partners faced liquidity shortages. In response, the club diversified revenue streams, launching "Al Nejmeh Water" in September 2025 as part of a "golden era project" to fund and competitiveness amid rates surpassing 80% nationally. Geopolitical tensions compounded these issues, with the suspending all domestic competitions indefinitely in September 2024 amid Israeli airstrikes and Hezbollah-Israel escalations that displaced over 1 million and destroyed . Football resumed sporadically thereafter, including a May 2025 Beirut derby at after five years of disuse due to prior damage from the 2020 Beirut port explosion and maintenance neglect. By October 2025, Nejmeh had secured recent league wins, such as a 3–0 victory over Bourj FC, signaling resilience but ongoing vulnerability to broader instability that hampers training, travel, and fan attendance.

Club Identity

Colours, Badge, and Symbolism

Nejmeh SC's traditional primary colour is burgundy red (also known as claret), which has been used in the club's kits since its founding in , often paired with accents for home matches. Away kits typically invert this scheme, featuring as the dominant colour with burgundy details. The club's emblem centers on a , directly alluding to "Nejmeh," the term for "star," reflecting the founders' aspiration for prominence in Lebanese . Flanking the star are cedar trees, Lebanon's evoking resilience and heritage, tying the club's identity to its roots and broader cultural symbolism. Earlier versions of the badge emphasized these elements more prominently, while contemporary designs incorporate the club name in Arabic and English, Beirut's reference, and the 1945 founding year.

Home Stadium and Facilities

Nejmeh SC's primary home stadium is the , situated in the Manara district of , . This multi-use venue primarily hosts football matches for the club and has a capacity of 5,000 spectators. Originally developed from a basic sand training field lacking fences or amenities, the stadium has been upgraded over time, including the addition of a grass pitch and expanded seating to accommodate larger crowds. The facilities include a dedicated football field, a VIP seating area for approximately 100 guests, a , and an on-site gymnasium supporting the club's training and multi-sport activities. These amenities enable comprehensive preparation for matches and youth development programs. Due to occasional maintenance issues or scheduling conflicts, Nejmeh SC has utilized alternative venues for home games, such as Fouad Chehab Stadium and the larger for high-attendance derbies.

Fanbase and Rivalries

Supporters and Cultural Significance

Nejmeh SC boasts one of the largest and most passionate fanbases in Lebanese football, often recognized as the country's most popular club capable of drawing over spectators to matches. Supporters are drawn from diverse socio-economic, political, and religious backgrounds, reflecting the club's multi-confessional ethos established since its founding in 1945. This broad appeal has positioned Nejmeh as a symbol of relative unity in a football landscape frequently divided along sectarian lines. The club's ultras group, , has played a pivotal role in shaping supporter culture by introducing organized -style support to around 2018, featuring choreographed displays, flares, and chants that energize home games at . These fans emphasize an "All-Lebanese" identity, fostering a sense of national pride amid the club's competitive history. Culturally, Nejmeh holds significant stature in Lebanese society, with matches like the Classico derby against Al-Ansar serving as major events that highlight the sport's communal importance and draw the season's largest crowds. The club's enduring popularity underscores football's role as a rare non-sectarian outlet for expression and escapism in , contributing to its legacy as a cornerstone of the nation's sporting identity.

Key Rivalries and Derbies

The primary rivalry of Nejmeh SC is with Al Ansar FC, contested as the Beirut derby, one of the most intense and historic fixtures in Lebanese football. This cross-city clash between the two Beirut-based clubs draws massive crowds and is characterized by fierce competition, with over 70 meetings recorded by early 2024. The derby embodies deep-seated passion among supporters, often resulting in closely contested matches; for instance, Al Ansar defeated Nejmeh 5-1 on December 8, 2023, while Nejmeh secured a 3-0 victory in an October 2025 derby held in Abu Dhabi. Nejmeh's encounters with Al Ansar have historically been pivotal in the , influencing title races and amplifying the clubs' dominance in domestic competitions. The recognizes the fixture as a great Asian , highlighting its eagerly anticipated status across the region. Matches frequently feature high stakes, with recent examples including Al Ansar's 2-1 win in February 2025, underscoring the derby's role in maintaining league excitement. In addition to the Beirut derby, Nejmeh has developed a notable with Al Ahed SC, another , particularly in recent years amid contests for league supremacy. This fixture has grown in intensity as Al Ahed emerged as a strong contender, though it lacks the longstanding tradition of the Ansar matchup. Other opponents like also feature in Nejmeh's competitive landscape, but none rival the prominence of the with Al Ansar.

Political and Sectarian Dimensions

Sectarian Affiliations and Community Ties

Nejmeh SC, founded in 1934 in 's Ras Beirut neighborhood, initially drew support from a diverse array of communities, including Sunnis, , and others, reflecting the mixed demographic of the area prior to intensified sectarian divisions. Over time, particularly following the (1975–1990), the club underwent a transformation in its fanbase composition, shifting from a more Shia-leaning affiliation to one predominantly associated with Sunni Muslims, amid broader politicization of sports clubs along confessional lines. This evolution aligned with sponsorship and leadership from the Hariri family, whose represents key Sunni political interests in the . The club's primary community ties remain rooted in Beirut's Sunni Muslim population, particularly in urban neighborhoods like Ras Beirut and surrounding areas, where it serves as a cultural and social anchor for local youth and families. Supporters often view Nejmeh as a symbol of Sunni resilience and identity, especially under the presidency of figures like from 2003 onward, who sought to balance growing Sunni loyalty with the club's historical multi- ethos to maintain broad appeal. Despite this Sunni dominance—estimated to constitute the majority of its fanbase—the club retains a minority following among Shiites and , preserving some cross-sectarian elements that distinguish it from more rigidly rivals. In Lebanon's , Nejmeh's affiliations extend beyond mere fan support to influence from Sunni-led political entities, including funding and electoral mobilization efforts tied to parliamentary campaigns in 2009 and beyond. manifests through youth programs, local events, and charitable initiatives in Sunni-majority districts, reinforcing ties amid ongoing sectarian tensions, though the club has occasionally contested strict sectarian allotments in Lebanese sports. This positioning has positioned Nejmeh as Lebanon's most popular football club by attendance and visibility, yet it underscores the interplay between sectarian identity and communal solidarity in a fragmented .

Political Influences and Interventions

Nejmeh SC has maintained close ties to Lebanon's Sunni political establishment, particularly through the Hariri family and their party. In 2003, , then a prominent businessman and future , assumed the presidency of the club, which had previously operated under less rigidly sectarian leadership. This move aligned Nejmeh more explicitly with Sunni interests, though Hariri reportedly sought to temper an emerging exclusive Sunni identity by preserving the club's multi-confessional appeal among Sunni, Shia, and supporters. The club's home ground, Rafic El-Hariri Stadium in 's Ras Beirut district, reflects this enduring connection, named after Hariri following his political prominence. Following Rafic Hariri's assassination on February 14, , which heightened sectarian and political tensions across , Nejmeh faced direct interventions in its operations. Security concerns led to a blanket ban on the club's fans attending matches from to , effectively sidelining supporter participation during a period of national instability linked to the killing's fallout. His son, , who succeeded him as Future Movement leader and served multiple terms as , continued leveraging Nejmeh for political mobilization, including rallying Sunni community support during electoral campaigns in Beirut's second district in 2009 and 2018, where club affiliations bolstered candidates' visibility. Broader political influences manifest in funding and administrative decisions, with Nejmeh receiving financial support from the , enabling operations amid Lebanon's economically strained sports landscape. Surveys of Lebanese sports stakeholders indicate widespread perception of partisan interference, with approximately 70% attributing influence over player selections and 80% noting party financing of teams like Nejmeh, often prioritizing loyalty over merit. These dynamics extend to rivalries, such as matches against Al-Ahed SC, where underlying tensions between Future Movement backers and Hezbollah-aligned Shia factions fuel competitive intensity beyond athletic merit. Despite these ties, Nejmeh's fanbase retains cross-sectarian elements, distinguishing it from more overtly clubs, though political has drawn criticism for embedding and in governance.

Personnel

Current Squad

As of the 2025–26 season, Nejmeh SC's squad comprises a mix of domestic Lebanese players, youth academy graduates, and select foreign imports, totaling around 28 registered members for the . The team emphasizes defensive solidity with experienced centre-backs alongside versatile wingers and forwards capable of counter-attacking play. Key personnel include: Goalkeepers:
  • Hassan Haidar, aged 19, a product of the club's youth system.
  • Mohamad Bechara, aged 26, serving as a reliable backup option.
Defenders:
  • Ali Al-Rida Ismail, right-back, aged 22, valued for his pace and crossing ability.
  • Khalil Khamis, centre-back, providing physical presence in the backline.
  • Houssein Mortada, defender, aged 24, contributing to set-piece defense.
  • Kassem El Zein, centre-back, aged 34, offering leadership from extensive league experience.
  • Abdallah Moughrabi, left-back, aged 30.
Midfielders:
  • Mahdi Zein, right winger/, aged 25, known for creative playmaking.
  • Hasan Korani, defensive , aged 30.
  • Hussain Monzer, attacking , aged 28.
  • Hassan Jaafar, , aged 20, an emerging talent.
  • Ahmad Khaireddine, .
Forwards:
  • Marios Ogboe, centre-forward, aged 31, a prolific scorer with prior experience abroad.
  • Ali Kassas, centre-forward, aged 22.
  • Mohamad Omar Sadek, left winger, aged 21.
  • Rodney Michael, right winger, aged 26.
  • Mohammad Markabawi, forward, aged 31.
  • George Felix Melki, forward.
This composition reflects recent transfers aimed at bolstering attacking options, with market values indicating a focus on cost-effective reinforcements amid Lebanon's economic constraints.

Notable Players and Contributions

Jamal al-Khatib, a Palestinian-Lebanese forward, is regarded as one of Nejmeh SC's legendary figures, having played for the club across two stints from 1969 to 1975 and 1976 to 1991, during which he established himself as the team's top goal scorer and most influential attacker. Al-Khatib contributed key goals in pivotal matches, including those that helped secure early domestic successes, and his performances earned him acclaim as the best player in Lebanese football at the time, despite financial disputes with the club later in his career. Hassan Maatouk, Lebanon's all-time leading national team scorer with 26 goals in 123 appearances, joined Nejmeh in 2017 after stints abroad and became a cornerstone of the squad, earning Lebanese Premier League Best Player honors in 2018 and another subsequent season. His technical skill and leadership propelled Nejmeh to multiple Elite Cup victories and consistent league contention, while his five goals in six qualifiers aided Lebanon's historic qualification for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. Youssef Mohamad, a veteran defender and former captain with 75 international caps, briefly returned to Nejmeh in September 2016, contributing to the team's title that season before injury curtailed his involvement. Mohamad's European experience from clubs like and brought defensive stability and tactical acumen, enhancing Nejmeh's backline during a championship-winning campaign.

Achievements

Domestic Honours

Nejmeh SC has secured 9 titles, establishing it as the second-most successful club in the competition behind Al-Ansar FC's 14 wins. The most recent triumph came in the 2023–24 season, clinching the championship amid a competitive campaign. The club has won the Lebanese FA Cup 6 times, contributing to its domestic trophy cabinet. In the Lebanese Super Cup, Nejmeh has triumphed 7 times, including the 2025 edition on October 13, defeating Al-Ansar 3–1. Nejmeh also dominated the now-defunct Lebanese Elite Cup, winning a record 12 titles prior to its suspension in 2023. These achievements underscore the club's historical prominence in Lebanese football, though inconsistencies in historical records across databases highlight challenges in verifying pre-2000s tallies due to archival gaps in official federation documentation.

Continental Competitions

Nejmeh SC has participated in AFC club competitions since the 1990s, with entries primarily qualifying through domestic success in the and cups. The club has competed in the AFC Champions League twice, the AFC Cup on multiple occasions, the three times, and the once as of 2025. Their performances have generally been limited to early knockout or group stages, reflecting the challenges faced by Lebanese clubs in regional play amid logistical issues and competitive disparities with wealthier Asian federations. The club's peak continental result occurred in the 2005 AFC Cup, where Nejmeh reached the final after progressing through group and semifinal stages. They faced Jordan's Al-Faisaly in a ; Al-Faisaly won the first leg 1–0 on October 19, 2005, followed by a 3–2 victory for Al-Faisaly in the second leg on October 26, 2005, for an aggregate score of 4–2. This runner-up finish represented the deepest run by any Lebanese club in an AFC tournament at the time. In the AFC Champions League, Nejmeh advanced to the second round in the 1996–97 edition before elimination, their furthest progress in the premier competition. They exited in the first qualifying round of the 2002–03 season. Earlier entries in the (1990–91, 1997–98, and 1998–99) ended in first-round defeats. AFC Cup appearances spanned over a , including a quarter-final exit in 2004 and group-stage campaigns in years such as 2019 (where they lost 0–1 to Al-Jaish of on April 1, 2019) and 2022 (featuring a 2–0 group win over Hilal Al-Quds on May 21, 2022).
SeasonCompetitionStage Reached
2004AFC CupQuarter-finals
2005AFC CupRunners-up
2019AFC CupGroup stage
2022AFC CupGroup stage
In the inaugural 2024–25 AFC Challenge League, Nejmeh entered Group A and recorded two wins—a 1–0 victory over Bangladesh's Bashundhara Kings on October 26, 2024, and a subsequent defeat of Bhutan's Paro FC—before a 2–3 loss to India's East Bengal FC on November 1, 2024, which prevented advancement to the quarter-finals. These efforts highlight Nejmeh's consistent but ultimately unchampioned presence in second-tier Asian club football.

Individual and Team Awards

Moussa Hojeij, a longtime Nejmeh SC midfielder who later captained the national team, received the best player award at the Festival in multiple editions, including the fifth festival honoring the 1999–2000 and the sixth in 2002. In the 2001–02 poll conducted by television, Hojeij topped the voting for best player ahead of Nasrat Al Jamal of Tadamon Sour and Mohammad Kassas of Hikma, accumulating votes from fans and experts recognizing his contributions to Nejmeh's domestic campaigns. The Football Festival, held annually since the late 1990s to celebrate Lebanese football achievements, has also featured Nejmeh players in team-of-the-season selections and other categories, though awards are determined via public and media votes that may incorporate regional or sectarian influences given the organizer's affiliations. No Nejmeh individuals have claimed major continental awards from the , such as AFC player of the year honors.

Controversies and Criticisms

Governance and Administrative Issues

Nejmeh SC's governance has been marked by leadership instability and regulatory disputes. In May 2020, vice-president Ali Al-Sabeh resigned, attributing the decision to an absence of chemistry with club president Assaad Saccal. On July 21, 2022, Saccal himself resigned as president, amid ongoing challenges in club management. The club has faced financial obligations enforced by international bodies. In June 2020, rejected Nejmeh's appeal in a contractual dispute with former player Abudu Issaka, mandating payment of $57,276 within 45 days for outstanding dues. Administrative oversight of fan behavior has drawn penalties. In May 2017, the fined Nejmeh $20,000 following discriminatory and religious chants by supporters during an AFC Cup match against Al-Wehdat, holding the club accountable for stadium conduct. Internal probes have addressed concerns. In early 2019, president Saccal launched investigations into suspected match-fixing involving Nejmeh personnel, reflecting efforts to maintain compliance amid broader Lebanese football scrutiny. These episodes underscore recurring tensions in executive cohesion, fiscal accountability, and adherence to federation rules, exacerbated by Lebanon's economic downturn, as noted by Saccal in comments on sports sector paralysis.

Match-Fixing Allegations and On-Field Disputes

In 2018, Nejmeh SC president Asaad Saccal launched an internal investigation into potential match-fixing within the club, which resulted in the release of player Mohamad Jaafar amid suspicions, though Jaafar denied any wrongdoing. Saccal's probe ultimately found no evidence of match-fixing at Nejmeh, leading him to advocate for a comprehensive league-wide inquiry by the Lebanese Football Association (LFA) and a freeze on season standings. The LFA's subsequent investigation corroborated this, concluding no match-fixing occurred in the Lebanese Premier League, while Lebanese Internal Security Forces initiated separate legal proceedings. Nejmeh matches have frequently involved on-field and spectator disputes, exacerbated by sectarian rivalries, particularly in the Beirut derby against Al Ansar FC, where post-match riots and clashes have been recurrent due to underlying political and communal tensions. In May 2013, a brawl erupted immediately after Nejmeh's league game against Akhaa Aley in Bhamdoun, highlighting persistent issues with crowd control and political undercurrents. Broader dissatisfaction with refereeing led Nejmeh and Al Ansar to organize protests at LFA headquarters during the 2018–19 season, criticizing officiating standards and contributing to heightened discord. In continental play, Nejmeh faced disciplinary action from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) following its April 2017 AFC Cup group stage home match against Al Wehdat FC, where supporters directed discriminatory and religiously charged chants toward opponents throughout the game. The AFC imposed a $20,000 fine on the club for violations of Articles 58 (discrimination), 64 (match organization), and 65 (spectator liability), alongside a requirement to play two future home AFC matches behind closed doors, with one suspended for a two-year probationary period.

Impact of National Crises and External Pressures

The from 1975 to 1990 profoundly disrupted Nejmeh SC's activities, as sectarian divisions aligned clubs with opposing factions in , with Nejmeh representing West amid east-west hostilities that fragmented the city and halted organized football. Exhibition matches, such as the 1983 National Unity Game pitting Nejmeh against an East selection at Safa Stadium, offered rare instances of cross-line play, but the national league faced prolonged interruptions, resuming only in the late after over a decade of irregular or suspended operations that eroded the club's pre-war dominance. The 2019 economic collapse, compounded by exceeding 280% and currency devaluation, strained Nejmeh SC through deteriorating infrastructure and reduced sponsorships, contributing to widespread stadium disrepair across that limited training and match facilities for Beirut-based clubs. The subsequent 2020 Beirut port explosion on August 4 inflicted structural damage on key venues like , a frequent site for Nejmeh's high-profile derbies, with shockwaves shattering facilities and delaying renovations amid fiscal constraints. External pressures from regional conflicts further compounded these challenges; the 2024 escalation between and prompted the to suspend all domestic competitions indefinitely on September 24, interrupting Nejmeh's 2024-25 season shortly after its start and forcing reliance on limited international fixtures like the . The league resumed in early January 2025, but the pause highlighted ongoing vulnerabilities to cross-border hostilities that have historically prioritized security over sporting continuity. Sectarian fan rivalries, intensified by such crises, have also led to measures like fan bans at matches to curb , as seen in periodic restrictions tied to broader instability.

References

  1. https://nejmehsc.com/about-us/
  2. https://www.transfermarkt.com/nejmeh-sc/erfolge/verein/7142
  3. https://www.footballgroundmap.com/ground/rafic-el-hariri-stadium/al-nejmeh
  4. https://betsapi.com/ts/60148/Al-Nejmeh
  5. https://alchetron.com/Nejmeh-SC
  6. https://kids.kiddle.co/Nejmeh_SC
  7. https://www.transfermarkt.com/lebanese-premier-league/erfolge/pokalwettbewerb/LIB1
  8. https://breakingthelines.com/historical/football-in-the-eye-of-the-storm-the-beirut-derby/
  9. https://www.facebook.com/falebanon/photos/a.267732436897787/1103902146614141/?type=3
  10. https://en.majalla.com/node/285091/culture-social-affairshalf-time-gives-vivid-glimpse-lebanon%25E2%2580%2599s-civil-war-football-scene
  11. https://www.rsssf.org/tablesl/lebchamp.html
  12. https://nejmehsc.com/timeline/
  13. https://www.playmakerstats.com/competicao_vencedores.php?id_comp=826
  14. https://www.mei.edu/publications/lebanons-economic-crisis-tragedy-making
  15. https://executive-bulletin.com/slider/al-nejmeh-club-launches-al-nejmeh-water-as-first-milestone-in-golden-era-project
  16. https://www.kingfut.com/2024/09/24/lebanese-football-suspended/
  17. https://www.arabnews.com/node/2601907/sport
  18. https://www.facebook.com/groups/987041304826074/posts/2916237935239725/
  19. https://www.footballkitarchive.com/nejmeh-sc-kits/
  20. https://www.footballkitarchive.com/nejmeh-sc-2022-23-home-kit/118706/
  21. https://www.instagram.com/p/CKGAGwuFPlr/?hl=en
  22. https://www.beirut.com/en/directory/rafic-hariri-stadium/
  23. https://nejmehsc.com/venue/fouad-chehab-stadium/
  24. https://footballmakeshistory.eu/football-in-lebanon-a-mirror-of-society/
  25. https://www.goal-click.com/football-photography-stories/lebanon-aub
  26. https://soccermoviemom.com/nejmeh-2015/
  27. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/lebanese-football-ultras-light-flare-erase-darkness-mass-protests-beirut
  28. https://www.theasiangame.net/the-hezbollah-club/
  29. https://www.arabmediasociety.com/the-integration-of-politics-and-sports-in-lebanon/
  30. https://www.facebook.com/slplupdate/posts/rodney-michael-jr-and-co-stun-al-ansar-30nejmeh-sc-celebrates-their-first-corona/831897845846494/
  31. https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/news/great_asian_derbies_%25E2%2580%2593_al_ansar_sc_vs_nejmeh_sc_beirut.html
  32. https://thisisbeirut.com.lb/articles/1308660/football-lebanon-al-ansar-wins-the-derby-and-takes-the-lead
  33. https://en.soccerwiki.org/squad.php?clubid=1206
  34. https://www.athensjournals.gr/sports/2018-1-X-Y-Maugendre.pdf
  35. https://www.jstor.org/stable/41300229
  36. https://research.gold.ac.uk/18235/1/ANT_thesis_Al-MasriM_2016.pdf
  37. https://www.orient-institut.org/events/detail-event/nejmeh-the-troubled-club-football-and-politics-in-lebanon.html
  38. https://www.athensjournals.gr/sports/2018-5-3-3-Maugendre.pdf
  39. https://www.esquireme.com/news/long-road-rio
  40. https://www.transfermarkt.us/nejmeh-sc/kader/verein/7142
  41. https://www.espn.com/soccer/team/squad/_/id/21442/nejmeh
  42. https://transferbol.com/teams/nejmeh-sc
  43. https://www.aiscore.com/team-al-nejmeh/9gklzi0n31f17xd/squad
  44. https://sorare.com/football/clubs/al-nejmeh-beirut/team
  45. https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1318579/why-did-pele-visit-beirut-a-week-before-lebanons-civil-war-erupted.html
  46. https://en.everybodywiki.com/Jamal_Al_Khatib
  47. https://ahmadkarakira.medium.com/the-case-of-palestinian-sports-in-lebanon-where-are-we-now-a8069d127d16
  48. https://www.transfermarkt.us/hassan-maatouk/profil/spieler/98579
  49. https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup/news/ones_to_watch_hassan_matouk_lebanon.html
  50. https://thisisbeirut.com.lb/articles/1263104/football-hassan-maatouk-ends-his-career-on-a-high-note-with-a-big-win-for-lebanon
  51. https://www.transfermarkt.us/youssef-mohamad/profil/spieler/21282
  52. https://www.national-football-teams.com/player/3760/Youssef_Mohamad.html
  53. https://www.arabnews.com/node/2472936/football
  54. https://www.aiscore.com/team-al-nejmeh/9gklzi0n31f17xd/trophies
  55. https://www.facebook.com/100050510888654/posts/rodney-michael-jr-nejmeh-sc-clinched-the-2025-lebanon-super-cup-with-a-comfortab/1391068495920167/
  56. https://www.sofascore.com/tournament/football/lebanon/super-cup/2159
  57. https://twitter.com/FALebanon/status/1421506021957140480
  58. https://beirut-today.com/2017/08/23/nejmeh-sc-wins-elite-cup-for-the-tenth-time/
  59. https://wildstat.com/p/148/club/LIB_Al_Nejmeh_SC_Beirut
  60. https://www.flashfootball.com/asia/afc-cup-2005/results/
  61. https://www.the-afc.com/en/club/afc_cup/news/afc_cup_final_flashback_al_faisaly_v_nejmeh_2005.html
  62. https://wildstat.com/p/1/cht/514/club1/LIB_Al_Nejmeh_SC_Beirut/stat/lost
  63. https://www.the-afc.com/en/club/afc_cup/news/group_a_nejmeh_sc_0-1_al_jaish.html
  64. https://wildstat.com/p/1/cht/517/club1/LIB_Al_Nejmeh_SC_Beirut/stat/won
  65. https://www.the-afc.com/en/club/afc_challenge_league.html/news/group-a-md1-nejmeh-sc-lbn-1-0-bashundhara-kings-ban
  66. https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/indian-football/east-bengal-vs-nejmeh-sc-result-score-highlights-afc-challenge-league-quarterfinals-knockouts-qualification/article68819359.ece
  67. https://thisisbeirut.com.lb/articles/1300042/nejmeh-continues-its-winning-streak-in-the-afc-challenge-league
  68. https://archive.assafir.com/ssr/1101790.html
  69. https://archive.assafir.com/ssr/1174195.html
  70. https://archive.alahednews.news/alahed.org/archive/2002/3105/sports/doc2.htm
  71. https://www.falebanon.com/22345/
  72. https://www.mtv.com.lb/en/news/articles/1298943/photo-nejmeh-club-president-assaad-saqal-has-resigned
  73. https://www.facebook.com/falebanon/photos/fifa-has-rejected-the-appeal-of-nejmeh-sc-in-a-dispute-with-their-ex-player-abud/1155917131412642/
  74. https://www.falebanon.com/14209/
  75. https://www.lecommercedulevant.com/article/29758-sports-on-sick-leave-well-before-coronavirus
  76. https://www.plus961.com/2013/05/fight-breaks-out-after-nejmeh-safaa-game/
  77. https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/news/three_clubs_found_guilty_of_discrimination_and_spectator_misconduct.html
  78. https://assets.the-afc.com/migration/l/i/list-of-afcdc-decisions-on-03-may-2017-36489
  79. https://www.thearabweekly.com/lebanon-stadiums-fall-disrepair-country-faces-collapse
  80. https://www.babagol.net/blog/2025/1/8/lebanese-premier-league-returns-after-war-induced-pause
  81. https://www.vice.com/en/article/no-fans-allowed-at-lebanese-soccer-games/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.