Once again, football proved to be a bridge for unity, turning the field into a space of reconciliation. As part of establishing positive relationships and decreasing stigma towards each others, a joint football cross-regional activity was conducted where youth from other areas and sectarian backgrounds (Beirut & Tripoli) and specifically from conflict hotspot areas such as Chiyah, Tarik Al Jdeede and Ain El Remmeneh from Beirut and Beb El Tebbeneh, Jabal Mohsen, Mallouleh and Mankoubin from Tripoli. The event took place in Batroun, where the setting itself reflected neutrality and new beginnings. This is part of a series of activities that are continously done.
This was not mainly just a football match but the activities started with a teambuilding activity to allow the youth, who have never met before, to meet and share perspectives because they will be playing in mixed Tripoli and Beirut teams, playing with one another, not against each other.
The match then began with two mixed teams, each made up of 11 players from both cities. From the start, the field came alive with energy not of rivalry, but of collaboration.
By the final whistle, regardless of what the scoreboard read the real win was shared: a renewed belief that Lebanon’s youth can rewrite the story of their country. Both teams were awarded medals and trophies, underlining that the real victory was shared. What mattered was not the score, but the friendships built and the barriers dismantled.
The spirit of the game continued beyond the pitch. Youth, coaches, and audience sat together for a communal lunch, sharing stories and laughter around the same tables. The conversations carried the message of the day: that building trust is possible, and that reconciliation can grow stronger each time we come together.
Through Sports for Reconciliation, MARCH continues to use football as a platform for peace, resilience, and coexistence.
