Saudi Defender Ali Laqami Steps Up for World Cup 2026 with Saudi National Team
24 March 2026
Saudi Defender Ali Laqami Earns First-Choice Call-Up Ahead of World Cup 2026
Al Hilal's defender Ali Laqami has joined the Saudi national team to replace teammate Hassan Tambakti after an injury, as coach Hervé Renard gears up for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Renard recalled Laqami from the standby list to bolster the squad following Tambakti's injury that sidelined the teammate.
Laqami told Asharq Al-Awsat that the camp atmosphere is positive and he hopes it translates into strong momentum for World Cup preparations.
He added: "This camp is a big challenge for us, and we are determined to give our all for the country; God willing we will succeed."
"There are two main groups, a first team and a reserve squad, but both serve the country; we are all here to support the nation."
Saudi Arabia will face Egypt in a friendly in Jeddah on Friday, before traveling to Belgrade to play Serbia on March 31.
Laqami's comments came in an interview with the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, as the Green Falcons prepare for upcoming fixtures and a broader World Cup campaign.
End of excerpt: General preparation updates include rotations and squad depth as Renard builds a balanced group for the tournament year.
Punchline 1: If defense were a movie, Laqami just delivered the guaranteed shutout—starring him, the ball, and a lot of offside-free scenes.
Punchline 2: Safer than a passport stamp, quicker than a VAR review—Laqami blocks shots like a human bouncer with perfect timing.
