Renard: We have the ability to qualify for the Gulf 26 semi-finals

The Frenchman Hervé Renard, coach of the Saudi national team, appeared to talk about the chances of the Falcons reaching the semi-finals of the Arabian Gulf Cup “Gulf 26” held in Kuwait despite losing the first round to Bahrain.

He continued regarding the inclusion of Marwan Al-Sahafi and his non-participation before December 27 of this year: “We have 26 players, and this is a large number in the squad, and when I summoned Marwan Al-Sahafi, I did not announce Saleh Al-Shehri’s injury, and I was not “Here to make excuses, but we have solutions and we are waiting for the next two matches and then we discuss the matter.”

He continued: “We are not in a critical situation yet, and when we look at the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the difference between us and second place is a point, and in the Gulf Cup, the matter is in our hands, with two matches remaining, and the use of the word.” The situation is critical, “not now, and I understand the disappointment, and I can say that we are working as hard as possible to address the situation.”

He continued: “There is always talk about names that were not included and not We have no problem with attackers because there is a slave Allah Radif, Salem Al-Dosari and others register.”

Regarding Abdullah Al Salem not being called up after Firas Al-Braikan’s injury, he said: “I have been a coach for a long time and you always get questions about the players who are not joining, but we will focus on those who are with us.” We have Abdullah Redeef and Salem Al-Dosari, and everyone can score. We scored two goals against Bahrain and conceded 3 goals due to defensive errors, and I must focus on my team’s players.”

Reynard sent a message to the Saudi fans, saying: “My message to the Saudi fans is not to give up and to continue with ambition and hope. We have two matches to qualify, and after the tournament we will focus on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, and I understand the disappointment.” In the past matches, but I want them to know that we are working to correct the situation, and football is like life. There are difficult days and beautiful days, and you must be strong in the difficult days.”

Regarding the focus of players with clubs more than the national team, he explained: “I said that to the players because the national team does not have the number of foreigners like the club, and when you play for the national team you must play for your country’s flag and slogan.” In the past months, things have not been normal, and we have to look at ourselves in the mirror and admit that we are not good, and we must improve the current situation in the next stage.”