This piece is part of a collaborative effort for the 2026 World Cup, featuring insights from various esteemed media outlets across the 48 nations that qualified. As the tournament approaches, starting on June 11, updates will be provided daily from three countries.
Transition in Leadership
Where should we begin? Perhaps we should look back to late April when Hervé Renard’s tenure as head coach ended abruptly, leading to the appointment of Georgios Donis. The former Blackburn winger selected his squad without having managed a single match.
Renard held the coaching position from 2019 until 2023, steering the team to a notable victory against Argentina during the Qatar World Cup. However, he returned to the role in October 2024, taking over from Roberto Mancini, who had never seemed to fit the job. Unfortunately, Renard’s second stint was lackluster, and without the tournament’s expansion, the Green Falcons would not have qualified, barely making the cut as it was.
“That’s football … Saudi Arabia has qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice with me,” Renard remarked as he departed. “And there’s only one coach who has guided them through both the qualifiers and the World Cup; that’s me, in 2022. At least there will be that sense of pride.”
Saudi Arabia: Group H Schedule
15 June vs. Uruguay, Miami (6 PM local, 11 PM BST, 16 June 8 AM AEST)
21 June vs. Spain, Atlanta (12 PM local, 5 PM BST, 22 June 2 AM AEST)
26 June vs. Cape Verde, Houston (7 PM local, 27 June 1 AM BST, 27 June 10 AM AEST)
That sense of pride took a hit following a disheartening 4-0 loss at home to Egypt in March. “It could have been 6-0 by half-time,” lamented Saeed Al-Owairan, a hero from 1994. Speculation about Renard’s future intensified after reports surfaced of his discussions with Ghana regarding their vacant coaching position, ultimately leading to his dismissal. In Saudi Arabia, the timing of the sacking has drawn more criticism than the decision itself.
Donis is expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, and given the limited time available, focusing on building a resilient defense may be the best strategy, especially considering Renard’s last eight games yielded no clean sheets. Scoring remains a challenge as well; the team netted only seven goals in ten qualification matches, with no contributions from recognized strikers.
There is talent within the squad, and perhaps a little less pressure now. Additionally, other considerations loom on the horizon. Saudi Arabia is set to host the Asian Cup for the first time in January, aiming for their first continental title since 1996, marking the beginning of preparations for the 2034 World Cup.
Introducing the Coach
Giorgios Donis will face Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay in his first competitive match as head coach, and time is not on his side. Having coached four clubs in the Saudi Pro League, Donis is familiar with both the league and its players, which contributed to his selection. He successfully guided Al-Khaleej to a mid-table finish this season, achieving about the highest placement possible while playing commendable football.
Key Player to Watch
Salem Al-Dawsari is the standout figure. The Asian Player of the Year scored the decisive goal against Argentina in 2022 and has consistently shone for Al-Hilal, effectively cutting in from the left wing. Despite nearing 35, his status as the key player raises concerns, as he has struggled with form for the national team recently and missed crucial penalties that could have eased Mancini’s challenges. Nevertheless, he remains capable of delivering on the grandest stages.
Emerging Talent
Musab Al-Juwayr, at just 22, has already accumulated over 30 appearances for the Green Falcons. Expectations are high for this creative midfielder, who was honored as the Saudi Pro League’s Most Promising Player last season due to his vision, passing accuracy, and ability to maintain composure amidst chaos. Since transferring to Al-Qadsiah, he has received more playing time under Brendan Rodgers, contributing to the club’s top-four finish. His journey is just beginning.
A Hidden Gem
Firas Al-Buraikan. Saudi forwards often face scrutiny. Alongside constant comparisons to renowned foreign strikers, they frequently endure discussions about their lack of playing time. Al-Buraikan, now 26, has been on the scene for what feels like a decade. When given opportunities, he has proven capable of scoring at the club level. While he hasn’t solidified his position as the undisputed No. 9 for his nation, his relentless work ethic and the winning goal in the Asian Champions League final this past April should bolster his confidence.
Projected Starting XI
Anticipating Fan Support
Saudi fans were well-represented during the Club World Cup when Al-Hilal performed impressively, and ticket sales have been “steady” among local supporters and the Saudi community in the United States. Thousands are expected to show up in Miami, Atlanta, and Houston. In the Saudi Pro League, fans are often young, passionate, and vocal, renowned in Asia for their exceptional tifos. They create a unique atmosphere that doesn’t merely imitate European ultras.
US-Saudi Relations
The relationship is somewhat complex; however, Saudi Arabia is regarded as one of President Trump’s favored nations, with a strong bond with leader Mohammed bin Salman. The kingdom has long been a close ally of the United States, purchasing more military equipment from them than any other nation. The ongoing US and Israeli conflict with Iran has raised concerns in Riyadh due to the retaliatory actions from Tehran and the resulting regional instability. Nonetheless, Saudi players and staff typically refrain from making political statements, a trend unlikely to change.
