World Cup Preview: Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup aiming to build on the momentum created by their memorable campaign in Qatar four years earlier. The Green Falcons stunned eventual champions Argentina in one of the greatest World Cup upsets of all time and have continued to establish themselves as one of Asia’s leading football nations. With Hervé Renard back in charge and an experienced core of players, hopes are high that Saudi Arabia can challenge for a place in the knockout stages.
Fixtures (UK time)
Uruguay, June 15, 11pm
Spain, June 21, 5pm
Cape Verde, June 27, 1am
How They Qualified
Saudi Arabia secured qualification in the fourth stage of the Asian qualifying process. They missed out on qualifying in the earlier group stage when they finished below Japan and Australia, but then narrowly beat Iraq to automatic qualification by virtue of goals scored. Qualification ensured Saudi Arabia would reach a third consecutive World Cup and a seventh finals overall, further underlining their status as one of Asia’s most consistent performers on the international stage.
The Manager
Herve Renard is one of international football’s most respected tournament specialists. The Frenchman famously led Zambia to a shock Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2012 before guiding Ivory Coast to the continental title three years later. Renard first managed Saudi Arabia between 2019 and 2023, overseeing their famous victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. After leading the French women’s national team through the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Olympics, he returned to lead the Green Falcons once again. The 57-year-old’s experience, motivational skills and tournament pedigree make him one of Saudi Arabia’s biggest assets heading into North America.
The Star
Salem Al-Dawsari remains the face of Saudi Arabian football and one of the most accomplished players in the nation’s history. The winger scored the winning goal against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, a strike that instantly became one of the most iconic moments in Saudi sporting history. A long-time star for Al Hilal, Al-Dawsari has won numerous domestic titles and the AFC Champions League, while also accumulating well over 90 international appearances. His creativity, leadership and knack for producing decisive moments make him central to Saudi Arabia’s hopes once again.
The Familiar Face
Saud Abdulhamid may not be a household name in Britain, but he is the one member of Saudi Arabia’s squad currently playing his club football in Europe. The attacking right-back joined Roma after establishing himself as one of the standout performers in the Saudi Pro League with Al Hilal. He spent last season on loan at Lens in Ligue 1, and made the move permanent at the end of the season. Blessed with pace and energy, Abdulhamid offers an important link between Saudi Arabia’s home-based core and the experience of European football.
Did you know?
Saudi Arabia’s victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup was so significant that a public holiday was declared across the country the following day to celebrate the result.
The Prediction
Round of 32
Saudi Arabia will face a difficult battle against Spain and Uruguay for the top two places in Group H, but the expanded format offers a realistic alternative route into the knockout stages. The Green Falcons have proven under Herve Renard that they can produce major upsets and are likely to target victories against Cape Verde while looking to take points from one of the group’s favourites. Four points could be enough to secure a place among the best third-placed teams, and Saudi Arabia have the experience and organisation to achieve that. Progression to the Round of 32 appears a realistic target, although a deeper run would likely require another famous World Cup shock.
Cover Photo: FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw Reception” by UKinUSA is licensed under CC BY SA 4.0 .
