Saudi Arabia
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Saudi Arabia return to the FIFA World Cup for the seventh time, carrying the unforgettable memory of their stunning 2-1 victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar — arguably the greatest upset in World Cup history. The Green Falcons now seek to prove that result was no fluke under Greek coach Georgios Donis, who brings European tactical discipline to a predominantly Saudi Pro League-based squad. The squad is built around the domestic Saudi Pro League powerhouses: Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad. Salem Al Dawsari, the hero of that Argentina victory with his stunning goal, remains the team's talisman and creative spark from Al Hilal. Mohammed Kanno provides midfield steel, while Firas Al Buraikan leads the attacking line with pace and clinical finishing. Saud Abdulhamid, the only European-based player at Lens in Ligue 1, offers international experience in defense. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais provides shot-stopping reliability behind a solid defensive unit. Drawn into Group H with Spain, Cape Verde, and Uruguay, Saudi Arabia face a tough but potentially navigable challenge. Spain are overwhelming favorites, and Uruguay under Bielsa are dangerous, but matches against Cape Verde and potentially Uruguay offer genuine opportunities. Saudi Arabia's defensive organization and counter-attacking speed could spring surprises, as they proved emphatically against Messi's Argentina. With the Saudi Pro League's growing global profile and massive domestic investment in football, the 2026 World Cup represents a chance to build on the 2022 momentum. Reaching the knockout rounds would be a significant achievement and a powerful statement ahead of Saudi Arabia's potential bid to host a future World Cup.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Saudi Arabia at World Cup 2026?
Georgios Donis is the head coach of Saudi Arabia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Greek manager brings European tactical expertise to the Green Falcons, aiming to replicate and build on their stunning 2022 World Cup performance.
What group is Saudi Arabia in at World Cup 2026?
Saudi Arabia are in Group H at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Spain, Cape Verde, and Uruguay. Spain are heavy favorites, but Saudi Arabia will look to compete for second place.
Did Saudi Arabia beat Argentina at the World Cup?
Yes, Saudi Arabia stunned the world by beating Argentina 2-1 in their opening group match at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Salem Al Dawsari scored a spectacular goal in what is widely considered the greatest upset in World Cup history. Argentina went on to win the tournament.
Who are the key players for Saudi Arabia at World Cup 2026?
Key players include Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal), Saud Abdulhamid (Lens), Firas Al Buraikan (Al Ahli), Mohammed Kanno (Al Hilal), and Mohammed Al Owais (Al Ula). The squad is primarily based in the Saudi Pro League.
How many World Cups has Saudi Arabia been to?
The 2026 World Cup is Saudi Arabia's seventh appearance. They have previously appeared in 1994 (reaching the Round of 16), 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, and 2022. Their 2022 victory over Argentina remains their most famous moment.