Saudi Arabia began their AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ Group A campaign with a tense 1-0 success against first-time participants Kyrgyz Republic on Tuesday, earning three points in front of the home crowd.
Saudi Arabia began their AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ Group A campaign with a tense 1-0 success against first-time participants Kyrgyz Republic on Tuesday, earning three points in front of the home crowd.
The hosts were dealt a blow early on when skipper Abdullah Radif was forced off with a foot injury, disrupting their initial rhythm and prompting an early change to the line-up.
Luigi Di Biagio later explained that his side still managed to apply sustained pressure, noting that the dismissal of a Kyrgyz Republic player altered the contest but did not diminish the challenge faced by his team.
Despite the complications, the Italian coach felt his players produced a strong display, stressing that the outcome was vital given the limited choices available to him during the tournament.
Saudi Arabia controlled much of the encounter, enjoying roughly three-quarters of the ball and repeatedly pushing forward, particularly after the break.
The Kyrgyz Republic, however, remained disciplined at the back, with goalkeeper Kurmanbek Nurlanbekov producing a series of assured interventions to frustrate the hosts’ attacking efforts.
The breakthrough eventually arrived when a brief loss of focus allowed Rakan Al Ghamdi to find the net, sealing the result after Saudi Arabia had earlier failed to convert from the penalty spot.
Di Biagio highlighted the intensity and attacking intent of his squad while also pointing out the need for sharper finishing as they prepare to face Jordan on Friday.
For Edmar Lacerda, the narrow defeat was difficult to accept, though the Kyrgyz Republic head coach took pride in his players’ tactical discipline throughout the match.
He acknowledged that his team had anticipated Saudi Arabia’s approach, especially given the hosts’ advantage of playing on home soil, and believed his players responded well to the demands placed upon them.
Playing with a numerical disadvantage made conditions even tougher, yet Lacerda expressed gratitude for the effort shown and urged his squad to quickly shift attention to their upcoming clash with Vietnam.
