Lebanon Edges France in World Cup Thriller
Abbas Miski scored a decisive extra-time try to secure a dramatic victory for Lebanon against France in a thrilling international rugby league match.
The Lebanon national rugby league team secured a dramatic 24-20 victory over France in extra time under the golden-point rule during a World Cup match at Western Sydney Stadium in Australia. Wigan Warriors winger Abbas Miski scored the decisive try five minutes into the extra period after capitalizing on a late error by French player Arthur Mourgue.
France had trailed by two points late in regulation time before Mourgue successfully kicked a two-point field goal to send the hard-fought contest into extra time. In the first period of extra extra time, France's César Rougé attempted a one-point drop goal that initially appeared to win the game, but the score was ultimately disallowed due to an escorting player infringement.
Following the disallowed kick, Lebanon's Alex Conti missed a long-range penalty attempt from near the halfway line, returning possession to France. Instead of keeping the ball secure, Mourgue attempted a chip-and-chase maneuver from inside his own territory. Miski intercepted the kick and raced ten yards unopposed into the in-goal area to ground the ball and seal the historic win.
Reflecting on the emotional victory, Lebanon captain Alex Twal highlighted the humble backgrounds of his squadmates. Twal stated that the team features plumbers, electricians, foremen, and builders who came together to compete against some of the top players in the world.
The match drew significant local and international attention, with roughly 30,000 tickets completely selling out several weeks prior to kickoff. While the majority of ticket buyers were supporters from Tonga and Samoa, members of Sydney's Lebanese diaspora also flooded the stands waving traditional flags and beating drums.
Because Lebanon's status was previously downgraded to an affiliate member of the International Rugby League, the team is currently ineligible to participate in upcoming tournaments. Consequently, this remarkable golden-point triumph over France may mark the Cedars' final World Cup appearance in the near future.
Sources
- Lebanon beat France in overtime thanks to Miski’s try — ABC ua.news
- Hull KR ace goes from hero to zero as France lose World Cup thriller in golden point - Serious About Rugby League seriousaboutrl.com
- The Saints of Lebanon: A spiritual heritage rooted in history and contemporary faith en.libnanews.com
- Behind Lebanon’s currency board debate: The choice between fixed and floating exchange rates today.lorientlejour.com
- Europe Erupts Again: France, Germany And Switzerland See Gen Z Anger, Violence Spread Further timesofindia.indiatimes.com