October 3, 2025 | 12:41 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Saudi Arabian national team is gearing up for the fourth round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in the Asian zone.
Drawn into Group B alongside Indonesia and Iraq, the Green Falcons, under French coach Hervé Renard, will rely on a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent as they aim for an automatic ticket to the World Cup.
Saudi Arabia endured a challenging campaign in the third round but managed to advance after finishing third with 13 points from ten matches, only one point above Indonesia in fourth place.
Now, attention turns to several of their key players whose performances could determine the outcome of crucial matches.
Salem Al-Dawsari
A talisman on the wing, Salem Al-Dawsari remains Saudi Arabia’s most dangerous attacker. Currently with Al-Hilal, he scored three goals and registered four assists during the third round of qualifiers, including a decisive strike against China in Riyadh.
The 2022 World Cup captain, who famously netted against Argentina, has returned to top form after a 2024 injury and will be central to Saudi’s attack against Indonesia and Iraq.
Firas Al-Buraikan
Leading the line is striker Firas Al-Buraikan, who scored five goals in the third round. Playing for Al-Fateh in the Saudi Pro League, the 25-year-old thrives on crosses and penalty-box opportunities.
He had also impressed earlier, netting three times in five matches during the second round. His clinical finishing makes him one of the biggest threats Indonesia’s defenders must anticipate.
Saud Abdulhamid
At just 25, wing-back Saud Abdulhamid has become a cornerstone of the Saudi defense. Known for his strong duels and overlapping runs, he contributed two assists in the qualifiers and helped the team keep four clean sheets.
His standout performance came in a 0-0 draw against Australia. Now with AS Roma, his experience in Europe further boosts Saudi’s backline.
Ali Al-Bulayhi
The veteran defender anchors the defense. Playing for Al-Hilal, the 35-year-old Al-Bulayhi brings leadership and composure, having played at the top level in the AFC Champions League.
He added a goal during the qualifiers and was crucial in restricting opponents to just eight goals across ten matches.
Abdulelah Al-Malki
In midfield, Abdulelah Al-Malki controls the tempo with precise passing, boasting a 90 percent accuracy rate. Returning from a 2024 injury, the 30-year-old Al-Hilal midfielder will be key in linking defense to attack, feeding creative outlets like Al-Dawsari and goal-scorers like Al-Buraikan.
Tactical Approach and Indonesia’s Challenge
Coach Hervé Renard typically employs a 4-2-3-1 system, balancing compact defense with rapid counter-attacks. In this setup, Al-Dawsari thrives on the wings while Al-Buraikan spearheads the attack.
For Indonesia, neutralizing these threats will be vital. Wing-backs such as Sandy Walsh will need to limit Al-Dawsari’s influence, while defenders like Jay Idzes must stay sharp to contain Al-Buraikan inside the penalty area.
With Saudi Arabia entering the qualifiers with both proven stars and youthful energy, the Green Falcons remain one of the toughest challenges Indonesia will face on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
Editor’s Choice: List of 28 Indonesia Players for Fourth Round of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
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