Centurion on the Pitch: Salem Al-Dosari Promises More Magic Before Arab Cup 2025

Milestone and Ambition

Salem Al-Dosari, captain of the Saudi national team, spoke about his personal ambitions after being named Asia's Best Player for the second time, ahead of the Arab Cup 2025. He celebrated reaching 100 caps for Saudi Arabia, calling it a great honor to represent his country and vowing to continue serving the Green Falcons with pride.

In a statement on the national team’s official X account, Al-Dosari said, "I'm happy with what I've achieved with the Green Falcons, and it's a great honor to reach 100 appearances for Saudi Arabia." He added that representing the national team is a tremendous privilege and that being the only player of his generation to reach 100 caps means a lot.

100 Caps, Algeria Friendly, and Key Stats

He recalled unforgettable moments with the Falcons and said his heart is set on more games and more chances to wear the green and white. He noted that winning Asia's Best Player in 2025 for a second time is not just a trophy but a motivation.

Saudi Arabia is preparing to face Algeria in a friendly in Jeddah as part of the build-up to the Arab Cup 2025 in Qatar, which runs from December 1 to 18. Al-Dosari has 99 international appearances; the Algeria clash would be his 100th.

Club-wise, the 34-year-old has been integral for Al-Hilal, recently contributing 27 goals and 18 assists in a standout season, and sharing 30 goal involvements (15 goals and 15 assists) with Karim Benzema, the league’s top contributor.

Historically, Al-Dosari has appeared 55 times in which he played full 90 minutes, and has started 89 games, coming on as a substitute in 10. His total minutes amount to 7,958. He is among the few players to have played 55 full matches at the international level and has scored 24 goals for the national team, including five penalties, having missed six penalties along the way.

As for recognition, Al-Dosari was named among the contenders for The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2025, with FIFA’s announcement highlighting his inclusion on the finalist list alongside global stars. The roster also featured Cristiano Ronaldo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and Yassine Bounou in the mix for football’s annual honors.

Last season, Al-Dosari delivered for both club and country, tallying a prolific stretch with 27 goals in 51 games and 18 assists, totaling 30 goal contributions. He was also noted for his leadership and creativity in the Saudi Pro League, where he continued to be among the competition’s standout performers.

The article also notes his nomination for The Best 2025, signaling the ongoing recognition of his impact on the global stage and the continued presence of Saudi talent in the world’s elite competitions.

Saudi Arabia is shaping up for a crucial period as they prepare for the Arab Cup 2025 in Qatar, with a friendly against Algeria serving as a key tune-up ahead of the tournament in December. Al-Dosari’s 100th cap would mark a historic milestone in a career already defined by consistency and leadership.

He has inspired a generation with his longevity and consistency, and his ongoing success at both club and international levels continues to elevate the profile of Saudi football on the world stage.

With the clock ticking toward the Arab Cup 2025, Al-Dosari’s fans are hoping for more moments that translate into trophies and memories. And yes, if you’re keeping score at home, a century of appearances is nothing to sneeze at—unless you’re allergic to glory.

Punchline 1: If 100 caps were a pizza, he’d own the whole menu—and the crust, too.

Punchline 2: He’s hit triple digits in appearances; the only thing hotter than his stats is the Saudi sun—fans are still melting with every strike.