Level Up: Abu Al-Shamat Lights Up the Green in AFC Qualifiers
9 October 2025
Emerging star delivers for Saudi Arabia as Green beat Indonesia
Saad Abu Al-Shamat, a 23-year-old winger from Al-Ahli, produced a standout performance for the Saudi national team against Indonesia in the opening round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
He earned a SofaScore rating of 7.9, the second-highest on the Saudi side behind striker Faris Al-Brikan, who scored twice.
Abu Al-Shamat also scored the equalizer at a crucial moment and helped Saudi to a 3-2 victory over Indonesia.
German coach Mathias Jaissle has helped shape his attacking instincts, and his presence at Al-Ahli has brought a trusted forward into the national team frame, offering him added opportunities to showcase his talent.
Last season with Al-Khaleej, he contributed one goal and six assists in 31 league appearances.
Although he has yet to find the back of the net in eight league games this term, he has forced competition with forwards such as Faris Al-Brikan, Ivan Toni, and Galino, proving he can be relied upon.
According to SofaScore, Abu Al-Shamat played around 60 minutes, with two successful dribbles from three attempts and a 75% pass accuracy, underscoring his all-around contribution.
Distinctive edge
Beyond his attacking mindset, SofaScore notes his ability to create and connect plays, a quality the national team sorely needs in the front third.
Renard, the Saudi coach, praised the two goal scorers against Indonesia and stressed the importance of trust within the squad, noting that the World Cup presents a different level of pressure and pace than domestic leagues.
Renard added that Abu Al-Shamat's energy and ambition make him a potential game-changer if he can sustain his form for longer stints, possibly beyond 65 minutes when needed.
French influence and future prospects
Under Renard's French-influenced leadership, the team has balanced tactical discipline with an aggressive approach, rebuilding confidence among supporters and probing for fresh talent ahead of 2026 and 2027 targets.
If Abu Al-Shamat continues to develop, Saudi Arabia could look stronger in the World Cup qualifiers and the 2027 Asia Cup, which will be hosted by the Kingdom.
In sum, the rising winger is a symbol of a broader shift toward youth and dynamism in the Green squad, with the potential to shape Saudi Arabia's football trajectory in the coming years.
