What would constitute success for Saudi Arabia?

The last time the World Cup was in North America, Saudi Arabia debuted and made the knockout stages. They haven’t gone that far in their five attempts since, so a repeat would go down very well.

There isn’t much confidence at the moment, however, as it’s all been downhill since that famous win over Argentina in 2022. Roberto Mancini arrived a few months later but lasted just 14 bad-tempered months, and the second coming of Herve Renard has yet to match his 2019-23 tenure.

Saudi Arabia did not impress at all during qualification and only squeezed through the playoffs on goals scored despite being given home advantage and a favourable schedule.

Who’s the Saudi player we most need to know about?

Salem Al-Dawsari (pictured) netted that unforgettable winner against Argentina, and the versatile winger is still the star man despite being 34. Saudi Arabia have had trouble scoring goals, just seven in 10 games in the main round of qualification, and none of those came from a recognised striker, putting even more responsibility on the shoulders of the captain.

He can handle it. In 2025, the Al-Hilal star was named the Saudi Pro League Saudi Player of the season and the AFC Asian Player of the Year. He may not have been at his best for the national team of late, though few have, and that will have to change if this current crop of players are to emulate the heroes of 1994.

What is the dream draw for Saudi Arabia?

Any team that can’t defend would be welcome, given the weak Saudi attack. Lightning in the guise of a group stage win against a global giant is unlikely to strike twice but even so, the glamour of a team like Brazil, France or England would get the juices flowing and give the football scene a sense of how far the journey to the top table is.

Of course, there is always Portugal, the home of Cristiano Ronaldo, the face of the Saudi Pro League, and other Riyadh-based stars like Ruben Neves, Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix.

In terms of Pot 2, an Arab derby with Morocco could be fun, especially if the group is completed by one of the new boys from the fourth pot.