Just over three years removed from a stunning victory over eventual world champions Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a palpable sense of unease surrounds the Saudi national team as the 2026 tournament approaches. The journey since that historic high has been turbulent, marked by managerial changes, underwhelming tournament performances, and a growing disconnect between the team's identity and the expectations of its passionate fanbase.
Just over three years removed from a stunning victory over eventual world champions Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a palpable sense of unease surrounds the Saudi national team as the 2026 tournament approaches. The journey since that historic high has been turbulent, marked by managerial changes, underwhelming tournament performances, and a growing disconnect between the team's identity and the expectations of its passionate fanbase.
The period following the 2022 World Cup saw a regression under Roberto Mancini, stalling the momentum generated by Herve Renard's first tenure. While Renard's return in October 2024 sparked hope, the results have failed to inspire confidence. An underwhelming Gulf Cup campaign, a missed opportunity for direct World Cup qualification, and a disappointing Gold Cup run have characterized a rocky 2025. The recent Arab Cup offered a chance for redemption, but a semifinal defeat to a rising Jordan—marking their fourth loss in five recent meetings—intensified frustrations and led to public calls for Renard's dismissal, which the Saudi Arabian Football Federation swiftly denied.
For many supporters, the anxiety stems from deeper issues than mere results. As fan Ahmed Al-Bawardi explained to Arab News, the concern is about the team's lost identity. "We don’t look like a well-oiled team on the pitch, and we don’t feel the same excitement as we did in 2022," he stated, echoing a widespread sentiment. Renard has frequently pointed to the limited playing time for domestic talent in the star-studded Roshn Saudi League as a developmental hurdle. However, fans counter by highlighting that even the world's best leagues are dominated by foreign talent, suggesting the solution requires more nuanced management.
The challenge of balancing the national team's growth with the league's explosive, foreign-led expansion was always formidable. As Saudi Arabia now looks ahead to a daunting 2026 World Cup group featuring Spain and Uruguay, the Green Falcons and their anxious supporters face a critical period. The road to North America promises to test whether the team can rediscover its cohesive identity and competitive edge in time for the global stage.
