Ranked 55th in the world, Saudi Arabia takes on 31st-ranked South Korea on Friday in Doha for their first friendly match of the current training camp.
The fixture gives the squad a chance to improve their international standing after winning the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup with a 2-0 victory over the UAE, securing their first title in 23 years. Defender Ali Lajami said the team focused during the camp on fixing errors made during that regional tournament.
“During the camp we focused on correcting the mistakes we made in the Gulf Cup,” Lajami told the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat.
“We are going into both matches with the aim of achieving victory and improving our international ranking,” Lajami said, according to Asharq Al-Awsat. “Facing South Korea and Uzbekistan gives us greater motivation to produce good performances, and we are looking to come away with wins in both matches.”
Squad Boosts Full Strength
Saudi Arabia enters the match with a full roster following the recovery of key players from recent illnesses and injuries.
Al-Ahli striker Firas Al-Buraikan returned to group training on Wednesday after missing the first two days with a cold. Lens right-back Saud Abdulhamid also rejoined training on Tuesday.
Coach Georgios Donis Stays Put
Saudi Arabian Football Federation officials denied claims that head coach Georgios Donis will leave his post, following media reports suggesting a 99 percent probability of his departure.
“I am not concerned by the rumours put out from time to time about my professional future with Saudi Arabia,” Donis told the Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiah.
“What concerns me at the moment is developing the team and focusing on the work,” Donis said, according to Al-Riyadiah. “I have the experience to deal with what is going on around my professional future, and I will give the best I have to serve Saudi football.”
The federation issued a formal denial via the Saudi channel Al-Ekhbariya, confirming Donis will remain in charge. Reports had previously linked former Portugal coach Roberto Martinez to the role ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Uzbekistan fixture follows Doha training camp
The training camp in Doha includes a second fixture scheduled against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, November 17, as reported by goal.com.
Questions about Saudi Arabia's match and coach status
When is the Saudi Arabia versus South Korea match?
The friendly match takes place on Friday in Doha during the team’s current training camp.
Who did Saudi Arabia defeat to win their recent tournament?
Saudi Arabia claimed the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup by beating the UAE 2-0 in the final.
What did the Saudi Arabian Football Federation say about the head coach?
The federation denied plans to sack Georgios Donis, confirming he will stay in post as head coach.
Who is the next opponent after South Korea?
Saudi Arabia will play Uzbekistan on Tuesday, November 17, at the Doha camp, as reported by goal.com.
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