Saudi Arabia will face Japan in a crucial AFC World Cup qualifier on Thursday at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. Both teams are aiming to secure spots in the 2026 World Cup, with Japan leading Group C after two dominant wins, while Saudi Arabia sits second after a mixed start.
Saudi Arabia’s Recent Form
Under the guidance of Roberto Mancini, Saudi Arabia has had a solid start to the third round of World Cup qualifying. After a disappointing 0-0 draw with Indonesia, they bounced back with a 2-1 win over China, despite going down to 10 men early in the match.
Saudi Arabia is targeting their third consecutive World Cup qualification, having made headlines by defeating Argentina in the 2022 World Cup.
Japan’s Recent Form
Japan has been in blistering form under manager Hajime Moriyasu, winning both of their opening fixtures in Group C by wide margins. They demolished China 7-0 and followed up with a 5-0 win over Bahrain. Japan has scored 12 goals without conceding in their first two games and looks like the team to beat in the group. After an impressive run in the 2022 World Cup, where they beat both Germany and Spain, Japan will aim to continue their dominant qualifying campaign.
Team News
Saudi Arabia:
Mohamed Kanno will miss the match after receiving a red card against China. Abdulelah Al Malki will likely be paired with Musab Al-Juwayr in midfield. Salem Al-Dawsari, one of the key players in their 2022 World Cup run, is expected to play a crucial role in attack.
Japan:
Japan will look to their star players such as Daichi Kamada and Takumi Minamino, with both being integral parts of their recent success. Hidemasa Morita and Liverpool’s Wataru Endo are set to anchor the midfield, with Ayase Ueda leading the attack.
Predicted Lineups
Saudi Arabia:
- Al Owais; Tambakti, Lajami, Kadesh; Abdulhamid, Al-Juwayr, Al Malki, Al Dawsari; Al Hamddan, Al-Dawsari, Al-Buraikan
Japan:
- Suzuki; Itakura, Taniguchi, Machida; Doan, Endo, Morita, Mitoma; Minamino, Kamada, Ueda
Prediction
Japan’s recent form, especially their attacking power, makes them favorites going into this match. Saudi Arabia will be looking to leverage home advantage, but Japan’s consistency and strength across the pitch could see them come away with all three points.
Prediction: Saudi Arabia 1-2 Japan
