Jordan Reserve League
The Jordan Reserve League serves as a vibrant proving ground for young prospects and bench players from Jordan's top clubs, nurturing the next generation of national football talent. Featuring reserves from the 12 Pro League teams, it delivers high-energy matches packed with surprises and raw potential. Launched in 2015 to bolster squad depth, it has evolved into a cornerstone of Jordanian football development.
History and foundation
The league's journey began in the mid-2010s amid calls for better youth integration. The inaugural 2015/16 season saw Al-Faisaly dominate with 28 wins in 30 games. Al-Wehdat set a goals record in 2018 with 92 tallies. COVID-19 disrupted play in 2020, but the 2021 revival introduced fresh stars. Notably, talents like Anas Bani Yaseen emerged here, scoring 15 goals before breaking into the senior side.
Tournament format
The format is straightforward: 12 teams in a double round-robin, 22 matches each, totaling 132 games per season. The top side claims the reserve championship, with top performers eyed for first-team promotion. No playoffs, but relegation/promotion playoffs occur with First Division reserves. Runs August to May, with a winter break.
Interesting facts
Scoring is brisk at 3.2 goals per game, outpacing the Pro League's 2.8. Standouts include Mohammed Dahoud (Al-Faisaly, 27 goals in 2022/23) and Ahmad Nouri (Al-Wehdat, 24 in 2021/22). Stars like Salem Al-Ajlouni, now with Al-Hussein first team, and Yazid Abu Salik, famed for dribbling flair, honed skills here amid chaotic, ambitious youth clashes.