Saudi Arabia head coach Herve Renard insists his side are in a fierce battle to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup and does not expect any favours from already-qualified Japan when they meet in a crucial qualifier on Tuesday.
The Saudis sit third in Group C of the Asian qualifiers, one point behind Australia with three matches remaining.
Only the top two teams earn automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, while third and fourth place must navigate an additional qualifying round.
Japan have already secured their place at the finals after a dominant campaign, but Renard believes the Samurai Blue will be relentless in Saitama.
“It’s a tough sprint for the second position,” the Frenchman told reporters on Monday. “We know Japan are disciplined, we know their philosophy, so there is no doubt they will play this game at 100 percent.”
Stunning Victory Over Argentina
Renard, who famously led Saudi Arabia to a stunning victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, returned for a second spell in charge last October following Roberto Mancini’s dismissal.
His side ended a four-match winless streak with a 1-0 victory over China last week, moving three points clear of Indonesia, Bahrain, and China in the race for third.
With crucial fixtures against Bahrain and Australia still to come, the Saudis must first navigate a daunting test against a rampant Japan side that has won six and drawn one of their seven qualifiers, sealing their World Cup berth with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain last week.
“We know we are playing against a very strong team, but with only three games left, this is very important for us,” Renard said. “We need to be ready for a tough game, but in football, you have to believe in yourself and in your qualification.”
Japan to make changes
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu has confirmed he will make changes, with striker Ayase Ueda and midfielder Hidemasa Morita already returning to their clubs. Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma remains a doubt after missing training on Monday.
Despite the alterations, Japan captain Wataru Endo insists his side’s desire to win will be the key factor.
“They are in a tough spot, they need the three points,” said the Liverpool midfielder. “But we need to want it more than them. We’re aiming to win the World Cup, and we need to give everything in this game.”
Saudi Arabia’s path to the World Cup remains treacherous, but Renard’s men know a strong performance against Japan could be the catalyst for their qualification hopes.
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