Reasons for the Saudi National Team's Early Exit from the 2026 World Cup

The Saudi national team exited the 2026 World Cup after a goalless draw against Cape Verde in the third round of the group stage, finishing last in Group H.

The Green team earned only two points during their World Cup journey, after drawing with Uruguay and losing to Spain by four goals, before ending the tournament with another goalless draw.

The Saudi national team scored only one goal in three matches, a weak tally not seen since the 2002 World Cup edition, during which they failed to score any goals.

The Green team failed to score in two consecutive matches against Spain and Cape Verde, showing a clear decline in their offensive performance during the tournament.

The performance level of several players sparked controversy among the fans, most notably the captain, Salem Al-Dawsari, who did not deliver the expected performance in the three matches.

According to performance evaluations, Al-Dosari received a low rating against Cape Verde, having left the field in the 66th minute without making a clear offensive impact.

The head coach of the Saudi national team, Georgios Donis, revealed the reasons for the early exit, stating that the team failed to create enough opportunities to secure the matches.

Donis said, "I saw the players' desire to win, but we didn't feel capable of achieving victory during the match, and this is something that needs to be reviewed."

The Greek coach added, "The problem was in creating opportunities, and the attacking line did not deliver the level we were expecting."

Donis pointed out that the pressures and transitions affected the team's performance, explaining that the team lacked the necessary confidence during certain periods of the matches.

Donis took charge of the Green team before the tournament, and under his supervision, the team played six matches, achieving one win, three draws, and two losses.

The current participation has sparked a lot of criticism, with some considering it to be below the level of their previous appearance in the 2022 World Cup.

Prince Abdulrahman bin Musaad called for the initiation of a new project for the national team, aimed at preparing a generation capable of competing in the 2034 World Cup.

He said, "I hope to build a new team from now that can present an image befitting Saudi football in 2034."

On the other hand, Prince Abdullah bin Musaad saw a positive aspect despite the exit, noting the clean sheet kept against Cape Verde.

He said, "The first match without conceding a goal in the World Cup since the game against Belgium in 1994, and this is a positive thing."

However, the exit of the Green Falcons from the group stage has raised questions about the future of the coaching staff and players, amidst calls to reorganize before upcoming commitments.