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AL - QADSIAH, ASIA, AUSTRALIA, BAHRAIN, CHINA, COMPETITIONS, CUBA, DUN, DUNKERQUE, EUROPE, GREEN FALCONS, HASSAN KADESH, HERVE RENARD, INDONESIA, INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION, INTERNATIONAL SERIES, JAKARTA, JAPAN, JE, KADESH, LONDON, MEXICO, NORTH AMERICA, OCEANIA, PAKISTAN, QUALIFICATION, REN, RIYADH, SAUDI, SAUDI ARABIA, SAUDI PRO LEAGUE, UNITED KINGDOM
Dante Raeburn
Key Factors to Consider in Saudi Arabia’s World Cup Qualification Matches
Saudi Arabia’s World Cup qualifying campaign intensifies with crucial matches against China and Japan. They need a must-win against China to revive their chances. Coach Hervé Renard has revamped the squad, emphasizing current form. Japan presents a formidable challenge, but possible benefits exist if Japan qualifies early. Saudi Arabia’s journey continues, with more matches ahead regardless of outcomes.
As Saudi Arabia’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup intensifies, they prepare to host China and then face Japan within a week. Currently, after six matches in the third round, Japan leads Group C with a substantial nine-point advantage, while the five other teams vie for the remaining automatic qualification spot, only one point apart.
The match against China is pivotal for Saudi Arabia. With only one win in six attempts, securing a victory at home is essential to boost their hopes for qualification. Fortunately for coach Hervé Renard, other contenders for the second spot, like Australia and China, have also struggled, providing an opportunity for a comeback.
Renard’s squad selection reflects a strategic approach, focusing on players in good form. Following a difficult period under previous coach Roberto Mancini, Renard has introduced new talents, including defender Jehad Thakri and striker Abdullah Al-Salem. His decisions suggest a commitment to revitalizing the team’s performance, hoping that fresh talent can catalyze a turnaround.
Facing Japan poses a formidable challenge. Japan’s previous successes have positioned them favorably, implying they might clinch an early World Cup spot. If Japan has already qualified before their match, the atmosphere might be less intimidating for Saudi Arabia, theoretically providing an unexpected advantage despite Japan’s prowess.
Key players like Mohamed Kanno must overcome injuries to contribute to the team’s efforts. Fellow stars such as Salem Al-Dawsari and Saud Abdulhamid are imperative for generating momentum on the field. Compounding the challenge is the logistical strain of traveling across time zones immediately after the match against China.
Regardless of the outcomes in the upcoming matches, Saudi Arabia’s path to qualification remains uncertain. Even with potential victories, forthcoming matches against Bahrain and Australia will be critical. Moreover, teams finishing third and fourth still have a chance for further qualification, maintaining the competitive spirit of the group as Saudi Arabia aims to secure a top-two finish.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s prospects for World Cup qualification hinge on their imminent matches against China and Japan. A victory against China is crucial, while the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges in Japan will be tested. With both newly introduced talents and seasoned players, the team’s success will depend on their collective performance and resilience. The quest to secure a favorable qualification spot is ongoing, necessitating focused efforts in all upcoming fixtures.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
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