The World Cup is 22 days away. Saudi Arabia's "Green Falcons" prepare for their seventh appearance.
Debuting in the USA in 1994, Saudi Arabia has only missed two tournaments. Now with an expanded 48-team format, they have new ambitions.
Head coach is 56-year-old former Greek international Donis. He has vast experience in the Saudi Pro League, having coached Al-Hilal, Al-Fateh, Al-Wehda, and most recently Al-Khaleej.
Their first friendly is May 30 in New Jersey against Ecuador.
1994 was their best World Cup: opening goal against Netherlands, win over Morocco, victory against Belgium. They reached the round of 16, losing to Sweden.
In 2022, they shocked Argentina 2-1. They lost to Poland and Mexico, finishing fourth in the group.
They qualified for 2026 by beating Indonesia and drawing with Iraq.
In Group H, they face Spain, Cape Verde, and Uruguay. Schedule: June 16 vs Uruguay, June 21 vs Spain, June 27 vs Cape Verde.
Top scorers: Sami Al-Jaber and Salem Al-Dawsari (3 goals each). Fuad Anwar scored 2.
Most appearances: Mohamed Al-Deayea (10 matches). Sami Al-Jaber played in four tournaments.
Memorable moments: Fuad Anwar's goal vs Netherlands, Saeed Al-Owairan's solo goal vs Belgium, win over Argentina in 2022. The Green Falcons aim to revive playoff memories in North America.
