Saudi Arabia will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing draw with Indonesia when they go head-to-head against China in Group C of the Asian 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Dalian Suoyuwan Football Stadium on Tuesday.
Early Setback for Saudi Arabia
The Saudis opened their campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against Indonesia at home on Thursday. Ragnar Oratmangoen gave the visitors the lead before Musab Al-Juwayr equalized for the Green Falcons. Salem Al-Dawsari missed a penalty late in the game, leaving Saudi Arabia to rue missed opportunities.
Mancini Seeks Consistency
Saudi national team coach Roberto Mancini demands better performance from his players. He expressed concern about the lack of consistent playing time for key players in the Saudi Pro League. Mancini believes this issue hampers the team’s success.
“Is Mohammed Al-Owais playing regularly for Al Hilal? Of course not. Is Hassan Tambakti participating? Musab Al-Juwayr was our best player today, yet he doesn’t play regularly for his club,” Mancini stated in the post-match press conference. “We are facing teams whose players are consistently playing,” he added.
After the draw, Saudi Arabia sits in fourth place with just one point in the group standings.
China Struggles After Heavy Defeat
China’s hopes for a second World Cup appearance took a severe hit after a crushing 7-0 defeat to Japan. The loss left China at the bottom of Group C, even trailing Australia in goal difference.
Saudi Arabia and China have met 20 times, each winning seven matches, with six draws. Their last encounter in March 2022 ended in a 1-1 draw during a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Saudi Arabia will look to capitalize on China’s poor form as they aim for a crucial victory in their quest for World Cup qualification.
