Desert Duel for a World Cup Ticket: Saudi Arabia vs Iraq in Jeddah
13 October 2025
Match Preview
Saudi Arabia and Iraq face off in a high-stakes World Cup 2026 Asia playoff in Jeddah, with the Saudis holding a favorable position that could be sealed by a draw.
Saudi Arabia rallied to beat Indonesia 3-2, while Iraq defeated Indonesia 1-0 behind a strike from Zidan Iqbal, creating a tight group dynamic as the two teams prepare for a decisive clash.
Top of the table, Saudi Arabia sits on three points, level with Iraq on goal difference, meaning a draw would be enough for the Green Falcons to reach the finals for the third consecutive time and the seventh in their history.
Only the group winner advances directly to the World Cup; the second-placed side will contest a two-leg playoff in November to reach the global playoff.
Adding to the drama, Saudi Arabia enjoys three extra days of rest compared to Iraq, who are chasing a World Cup return since their 1986 appearance in Mexico.
However, Renard’s lineup will be without Mohammed Kano, who saw red against Indonesia after coming on late in the match.
Trust in Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, who had just three international caps when he netted the equalizer with a beautiful strike, helped Respond to the challenge.
Renard, the French coach returning for a second spell with the Green Falcons, warned about a robust Iraqi defense that faced 17 Indonesian shots, including 10 on target, in the last game.
“We didn’t start well, but our reaction was excellent. We were ahead 3-1 at one point and had chances to seal it,” Renard said. “In the end we conceded a second penalty and came under heavy pressure, but that pressure was our fault for not finishing earlier.”
“We must be clever in the second game to ensure World Cup qualification,” he added, stressing that success depends on the players’ focus and consistency.
Meanwhile, Iraq coach Arnold lamented the red card incident and praised his players’ fight, while acknowledging the tough challenge of beating the Saudis away from home.
Don’t celebrate yet, cautioned Renard, and the two coaches will clash again in a climactic showdown as Asia’s playoff structure unfolds toward the 2026 finals.
Renard’s return to face Arnold also comes with a subplot, as The Day newspaper notes this marks a third coaching contest between the two, after their duels in 2022 World Cup qualifiers when Renard enjoyed the better of their head-to-head record.
Saudi Arabia’s prior meeting with Australia under Renard ended in a slim victory, while Arnold’s team could not breach the green wall in the other clash.
“We must be smart to secure qualification,” Renard added, underscoring the need for focus and discipline from his players.
