Saudi Arabia Clings to Draw Against Japan to Maintain World Cup Dreams

Saudi Arabia fought hard for a 0-0 draw on the road against Japan, who have already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup, keeping the Saudis’ slim chances of automatic qualification alive.

The Saudi team entered the match in Saitama sitting third in Group C of the Asian qualifying third round, just one point adrift of Australia.

The top two teams will earn direct entry to next year’s tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, while the sides finishing third and fourth will enter another qualifying phase.

Having claimed their qualifying position last week, Japan, the undisputed leaders of the group, faced a resilient Saudi side determined to stay in the race with two matches left to play, thanks to their strong defensive display.

The Saudis will head to Bahrain in June, followed by a potentially crucial home match against Australia.

Coach Herve Renard was without several injured players but looked to build on their recent form after a 1-0 victory over China, which marked their first win in five qualifiers.

Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu made six changes to the team that defeated Bahrain 2-0 to secure qualification, with key players like winger Kaoru Mitoma, striker Ayase Ueda, and midfielder Hidemasa Morita missing due to injury.

Daizen Maeda took his place in the attack, striking the post in the ninth minute as Japan asserted their dominance right from kick-off.

Ten minutes later, Maeda found himself in a clear position but failed to convert, stumbling while firing a weak effort.

Muhannad Al Shanqiti had the Saudis’ first attempt of the match shortly afterwards, but his header cleared the bar.

Takefusa Kubo, who was named man of the match against Bahrain, came close on two occasions before half-time, while Maeda missed another opportunity shortly after the break.

Moriyasu’s substitutions were pivotal against Bahrain, so he opted to bring on Junya Ito and Ritsu Doan just past the hour mark to shake things up.

However, Ito could not find the target and sent his shot sailing over the bar, leaving Japan to settle for a point as the Saudis held firm.

Follow the Asian World Cup qualifiers here.