Saudi Arabia will face off against Iraq in a high-stakes World Cup qualifier in Jeddah on Tuesday, with the winner of this Asian playoff encounter gets a direct a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Both teams enter the clash level on points after victories over Indonesia, though Saudi Arabia hold a slight edge on goals scored as Herve Renard’s men claimed a 3-2 victory, while Iraq managed a narrow 1-0 win. A draw will be enough for the hosts to advance, while Iraq must win to reach the finals for the first time since 1986.
Saudi Arabia, aiming for their third consecutive World Cup appearance, progressed from the previous qualifying rounds with solid performances. The Green Falcons collected 13 points in Round 2 and finished third in Round 3, earning their place in this decisive phase.
Saudi Arabia confident under Renard
Renard’s side enters the match confident but cautious after showing defensive frailties against Indonesia. Despite Firas Al-Buraikan’s brace and Mohamed Abu Al-Shamat’s opener, Saudi Arabia conceded two late goals and faced sustained pressure.
The French tactician urged his players to stay focused, saying, “What we did before means nothing if we fail to achieve our goal tomorrow. The key is concentration.”
Saudi Arabia will miss midfielder Mohamed Kanno, who was sent off in stoppage time against Indonesia. However, Renard can rely on experienced figures like captain Salem Al-Dawsari, striker Saleh Al-Shehri, and defender Hassan Al-Tambakti to lead the charge.
Iraq’s challenge and mindset
Iraq, coached by Graham Arnold, also remain in strong form after an efficient qualifying campaign. They topped their second-round group with six wins, scoring 17 goals and conceding only twice. Arnold’s men now aim to upset the hosts and claim a historic qualification.
Defender Zaid Tahseen is suspended following his red card against Indonesia, while striker Aymen Hussein remains doubtful. Despite the setbacks, Arnold insists his side feels less pressure than Saudi Arabia. “We have one way to qualify, by winning. However, Saudi have two ways, draw or win, and that adds pressure. We’ll play freely and go for it,” he said.
Key players and possible line-ups
Firas Al-Buraikan leads the Saudi attack alongside Salem Al-Dawsari and Muhammad Abu Al-Shamat. In midfield, Nasser Al-Dawsari and Abdulelah Al-Khaibari will anchor the play, while Nawaf Al-Aqidi guards the goal.
Iraq are expected to start Mohanad Ali in attack, with Zidane Iqbal operating in midfield after scoring the winner against Indonesia. Rebin Sulaka is likely to replace Tahseen in defense.
Predicted line-ups:
Saudi Arabia: Al-Aqidi; Boushal, Thakri, Al-Tambakti, Al-Harbi; Al-Khaibari, N. Al-Dawsari; Al-Shamat, Al-Juwayr, S. Al-Dawsari; Al-Buraikan.
Iraq: Hassan; Ali, Younis, Sulaka, Doski; Bayesh, Iqbal, Al-Ammari, Rasan; Karim, Ali.
Saudi Arabia hold a strong record against Iraq, winning 12 of their 37 meetings and drawing seven. With home advantage and experience on their side, the Arabian Falcons hope to seal their World Cup spot before a passionate Jeddah crowd.
Iraq, however, arrive determined to spoil the hosts’ celebrations and revive their long-awaited return to football’s grandest stage.
