| Date | R | Home v Away | - |
|---|
Al Nasr Benghazi
Al Ahli Tripoli
Al Hilal Benghazi
Al-Ittihad Tripoli
Al Ahli Benghazi
Abu Salim SC
Wikipedia - Libyan Premier League
The Libyan Premier League (Arabic: الدوري الليبي الممتاز) is the men's top professional football division of the Libyan football league system. Administered by the Competition Organizing Committee in the Libyan Football Federation (Arabic: لجنة تنظيم المسابقات بالإتحاد الليبي لكرة القدم), Libyan Premier League is contested by 22 teams divided into two groups of 11 (previously 20, split into groups of 10. changed as of the 23/24 season), with the two lowest-placed teams of each group relegated to the First Division.
51 teams have competed in Libyan Premier League since its inception. Ten teams have been crowned champions, with Al-Ittihad winning the title a record 18 times and Al-Ahly Tripoli 13 times. Al-Ahly Tripoli won the inaugural Premier League in 1963. Al-Ahly Tripoli and Al-Ahly Benghazi dominated the championship in the 1970s, winning four titles and two titles respectively throughout the decade. Al-Ittihad dominated the League through the 2000s, winning 8 titles.
The league has been ranked by the IFFHS as the 56th highest in the world for 2009, making it the sixth-highest ranked league in the Arab world, after the Saudi Professional League (32nd), the Egyptian Premier League (34th), the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 (48th), the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 (54th) and the Sudan Premier League (55th), and the eighth highest in Africa, after the Nigerian Professional Football League (30th), Egyptian Premier League, the Girabola in Angola (42nd), Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1, Zambia Super League (53rd), Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 and Sudan Premier League.
History
The Libyan Premier League was founded in 1963. Prior to that, there were three Provincial Championships, one each for the Eastern, Western and Southern provinces. The first league season at national level was the 1963-64 season, in which participated the Western Province champion Al Ahly (Tripoli), the Eastern Province champion Al Ahly (Benghazi) and the Southern Province champion Hilal Sabha. After the withdrawal of Hilal Sabha due to lack of resources, the league was limited to just two teams. Al Ahly (Tripoli) defeated Al Ahly (Benghazi) 2-0 over two matches (1-0 home and away) to become the first Libyan Premier League champions.
The Libya Premier League stands as the pinnacle of professional football in Libya, showcasing the nation's top talent and fostering a deep-rooted passion for the beautiful game. Established to elevate the standards of football in the country, the league features a competitive format that brings together clubs from across Libya, each vying for glory and the coveted championship title.
**Format and Structure:**
The league typically consists of a number of teams that compete in a round-robin format, where each team plays against every other team both home and away. Points are awarded for wins and draws, with the team accumulating the most points at the end of the season crowned as champions. The league also includes a relegation system, adding an extra layer of excitement as teams strive to avoid dropping to lower divisions.
**Cultural Significance:**
The Libya Premier League is more than just a sporting event; it is a cultural phenomenon that unites fans from diverse backgrounds. Matches are vibrant occasions filled with passionate supporters, colorful displays, and an electric atmosphere that reflects the rich heritage of Libyan football. Local rivalries add to the intensity, making each match a must-watch event.
**Development and Growth:**
In recent years, the league has focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing youth development programs, and attracting international talent. This commitment to growth aims to elevate the quality of play and increase the league's visibility on the global stage.
**Community Engagement:**
The Libya Premier League also plays a vital role in community engagement, with clubs actively participating in social initiatives and outreach programs. By promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy living, the league contributes to the overall development of Libyan society.
**Join the Action:**
As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling matches, standout performances, and unforgettable moments. Whether you are a die-hard supporter or a newcomer to the sport, the Libya Premier League promises an exhilarating experience that celebrates the spirit of football in Libya.