Saudi Arabia fell 2-0 to Japan in Jeddah on Thursday, marking their first defeat in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Japan’s Daichi Kamada opened the scoring early, showcasing the visitors’ strong form after their 12-goal streak in the group.
The Green Falcons, backed by over 56,000 fans at King Abdullah Sports City, pushed hard for an equalizer. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t find a way through, and Koki Ogawa’s late goal secured Japan’s win.
Crucial Match Ahead Against Bahrain
Saudi Arabia now face a crucial match against Bahrain on Tuesday at the same stadium. With Japan leading Group C with nine points, the Saudis sit tied with Australia and Bahrain on four points each. Fifth-place Indonesia trails with three, while China remains at the bottom with no points.
Trailing Japan by five points, Saudi Arabia is likely to compete for the second automatic qualification spot. The Green Falcons have yet to score from open play in over 270 minutes, a concern for coach Roberto Mancini. Creativity and offensive spark are urgently needed.
Lineup and Match Dynamics
Mancini’s squad had few changes, with Firas Al-Buraikan leading the attack and Ahmed Al-Kassar replacing the injured Mohammed Al-Owais in goal. Japan started aggressively, capitalizing on Saudi defensive errors. Kamada’s goal, assisted by Kaoru Mitoma and Hidemasa Morita, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s defensive struggles.
Saudi Arabia Struggles to Break Through
Despite brief surges, Saudi Arabia struggled to penetrate Japan’s defense. Saud Abdulhamid’s powerful shot, saved by Zion Suzuki, was their best chance before halftime. Japan remained dangerous on the counterattack, with Ayase Ueda’s efforts testing Al-Kassar.
Saleh Al-Shehri was introduced after halftime, hoping to shift momentum. However, Japan’s disciplined defense limited Saudi opportunities. Both teams struggled to find space, making set pieces a likely source for goals.
Late Set-Piece Clincher
With nine minutes left, Koki Ogawa headed home from a corner, sealing Japan’s win. Al-Shehri missed a late header, dashing Saudi hopes of a comeback.
Mancini and his squad face a tough path ahead if they aim for automatic qualification to their seventh World Cup. Adjustments and a stronger attacking presence will be crucial in upcoming matches.
