Iraq Match ‘Most Important in My Career’: Saudi Arabia Coach Renard

Mahmoud Elassal October 13, 2025

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Saudi Arabia national football team coach Hervé Renard has described the upcoming match against Iraq in the final round of the Asian World Cup 2026 playoff as the most important game of his coaching career.

The Green Falcons face Iraq on Tuesday in the playoff’s concluding fixture, with the winner securing direct qualification for the World Cup. A draw will see Saudi Arabia advance on goals scored.

“The match against Iraq is the most important in my career as a coach, and I will explain why after the game,” Renard said at a pre-match press conference.

“We are fully prepared for the Iraq match, and the players understand the huge responsibility on their shoulders,” he added.

“We know this is a crucial test to achieve our goal and ambition of reaching the 2026 World Cup,” Renard said. “This is a do-or-die game for us. It means a lot, and we are determined to qualify.”

Welcoming the Pressure

Responding to comments from Iraq’s coach that the pressure would be on Saudi Arabia, Renard said: “We welcome pressure; it’s positive for us.”

Meanwhile, Renard explained his decision to return as Saudi Arabia coach, saying: “I trust the players and the Saudi Football Federation president. I love challenges and difficulties, and we have a strong motivation to secure qualification.”

“I am fortunate to work with players like Saleh Al-Shehri, Salem Al-Dawsari, and Hassan Tambakti. I communicate with them regularly. We are preparing calmly and with focus, with no goal other than victory and qualification,” he added.

Current Standings:

Saudi Arabia: (3 points from 1 match, goal difference +1)
Iraq: (3 points from 1 match, goal difference +1)
Indonesia: (No points from 2 matches (eliminated)