The Bold Critique: Saudi Stars Question Fundamentals After Arab Cup Quarterfinal Win
12 December 2025
Match context and criticism
Bold words from Saudi Arabia's former star. Abdu Atif harshly criticizes several players after the Palestine match in the 2025 Arab Cup, saying 70% lack basic football fundamentals.
Saudi Arabia barely advanced to the Arab Cup semifinals, winning 2-1 against Palestine in extra time in the quarterfinals.
Fundamentals under fire
In TV remarks, Atif said: \"After watching my country's matches against Morocco and Palestine, I now question whether the team can win the Arab Cup.\" He also warned that unless the basics are fixed, progress on the international stage will remain slow.
The problem, he argued, is systemic: ball handling, players, coaching, and overall quality are foundational. If there are strong tools, management and the coach will succeed.
\"70% of players lack the essential basics of football—speed, quality, passing accuracy, and ball reception,\" he added.
He concluded: \"I'm not being harsh about top-level control, dribbling, vision, and quick decision-making; that's for later. At the top level you might find only three players.\"
Punchline: If fundamentals are the issue, maybe start with basic drills—paperwork can wait.
