Ep 7. Rivals: Derby Beirut

In Vice World of Sports season 2 episode 7, titled "Rivals: Derby Beirut", viewers are taken on a journey through the intense and often violent world of Lebanese football. The episode centers around the fierce rivalry between two Beirut-based football clubs, al-Ahed and Nejmeh.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the history of Lebanese football and the deep-seated rivalries that exist within the game. We learn that al-Ahed and Nejmeh have a longstanding and bitter feud, rooted in political and religious divisions that have plagued Lebanon for decades. Despite the danger and violence associated with these matches, the episode's central characters, players from both teams and their fans, approach each derby with a fierce determination to win.

Throughout the episode, viewers are shown footage of previous matches between the two clubs, including the infamous 2009 match where violent clashes broke out in the stands. We hear firsthand accounts from fans and players about the intense emotions involved in these games, as well as the ways in which politics and religion fuel the rivalry.

The episode also delves into the unique challenges that Lebanese football faces in terms of infrastructure and funding. We see how the country's ongoing economic and political crises have affected the sport, with clubs struggling to stay afloat amidst widespread corruption and a lack of investment. Despite these challenges, however, the players and fans remain dedicated to the game, with many holding onto the hope that football can bring people together in a divided society.

As the episode builds towards the final al-Ahed vs. Nejmeh match, tensions run high on and off the pitch. Viewers witness the pre-match rituals and preparations of both teams, as well as the elaborate displays of support from their respective fanbases. As the two teams face off, the episode's high-definition shots and dynamic editing convey both the beauty and violence of the game.

Ultimately, "Rivals: Derby Beirut" offers a fascinating glimpse into a world few outsiders get to see. Through its exploration of the al-Ahed vs. Nejmeh rivalry, the episode highlights the complex and often fraught relationship between politics, religion, and sport in Lebanon. At the same time, it celebrates the passion, resilience, and spirit of the players and fans who keep football alive in a country facing immense challenges.