Tiana Jaber Biography: Australia-Born Defender Thriving with Wellington Phoenix & Lebanon

At 24, Tiana Jaber is already making waves in women’s football—first in Australia, now with Wellington Phoenix, and internationally with Lebanon. Born in Australia to Lebanese and Italian parents, she brings athletic versatility and commitment to every team she represents, both on and off the pitch.

Tiana-Jaber
Tiana-Jaber

Early Life & Club Career in Australia

  • Born: May 9, 2000, in Penrith, New South Wales, Australia .

  • Developed in Western Sydney, playing for academies including North West Sydney Koalas and Western Sydney Wanderers .

Senior Career

  • Western Sydney Wanderers (2019–20): Earned a scholarship and professional debut with one A-League Women appearance .

  • Newcastle Jets (2020–22): Gained consistent game time, scoring a stunning long-range goal; made 16 appearances, including earning Newcastle’s Goal of the Season .

  • Western United (2023): Short-term signing, featured in three matches .

  • Bankstown City in NPL NSW: Featured in two stints (2022, 2023), continuing to hone her skills .


Wellington Phoenix: A Standout Role

  • Joined December 2023 as an injury replacement, later signed full-time for the 2024–25 season .

  • Made full 11-game run to finish the season; impressed enough to earn a renewed contract .

  • 2024–25 season stats: 22 appearances, averaging 65% tackle success and contributing to defensive stability .


International Journey with Lebanon

  • Eligible for Lebanon via her father, joined national setup in mid-2024 .

  • Senior debut: February 20, 2025, in Nepal during a four-nation tournament .

  • Accumulated 6 caps through mid‑2025 across friendlies and qualifiers .

  • Integral in Lebanon’s final preparation for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers .


Style of Play & Strengths

As a defender, Tiana stands out for her:

  • Versatility: Effective as centre-back, full-back, and in various systems .

  • Defensive reliability: 60–65% success in tackles and aerial duels .

  • Ball-playing ability: Maintains a high 73% pass accuracy, with successful distribution under pressure .

  • Composure and intelligence: Praised for calm in defense and strong tactical awareness .


Achievements & Recognition

  • Goal of the Season winner at Newcastle Jets 2021–22 .

  • Established starter at Wellington Phoenix across two seasons .

  • Lebanese national team regular, gaining 6 caps by mid-2025 .


Salary & Endorsements

  • Likely receives a semi-professional salary from Wellington Phoenix.

  • Possibly eligible for match fees and allowances through the Lebanese federation.

  • Her profile makes her a strong candidate for sportswear brands, cultural ambassador roles, and community programs.


Future Outlook

Tiana’s goals include:

  • Cementing her role at Wellington Phoenix and aspiring to higher-tier clubs.

  • Securing a regular starting spot with Lebanon for major tournaments.

  • Expanding her influence through off-field partnerships that reflect her multicultural and dual-career journey .


Conclusion

Tiana Jaber exemplifies modern football ambition: adaptable, hardworking, and globally connected. From grassroots in Sydney to professional stints in Australia and New Zealand, and now representing Lebanon internationally, she continues to rise—defensively and culturally. Her journey offers a compelling model for future players navigating dual identities and dual commitments.