World Cup History
Saudi Arabia has participated in six World Cups: 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, and 2022. Their best result was the Round of 16 in the United States in 1994, when they defeated Belgium thanks to Said Al-Owairan's famous long-range goal, considered one of the greatest goals in World Cup history.
But it was at Qatar 2022 where Saudi Arabia wrote its most glorious page: the 2-1 victory over Argentina, who were leading the match, stunned the world. The two goals from Al-Shehri and Al-Dawsari in the second half, combined with five offside calls against Argentina in the first half, created one of the most surprising performances in tournament history. The entire country celebrated that victory for days.
Key Players
Salem Al-Dawsari
Winger / Attacking Midfielder 路 Al-Hilal
The scorer of the winning goal against Argentina at Qatar 2022, one of the most celebrated goals in World Cup history. Al-Dawsari is Saudi Arabia's most technical and unbalancing player, with a brilliant career in the Saudi Pro League.
Mohammed Al-Owais
Goalkeeper 路 Al-Hilal
Recognized as one of Asia's best goalkeepers, Al-Owais was fundamental in the victory over Argentina with his key interventions. He has won multiple Asian best goalkeeper awards and is the national team captain.
Saleh Al-Shehri
Centre Forward 路 Al-Hilal
The forward who scored the first goal against Argentina at Qatar 2022 that started the historic comeback. Al-Shehri is a prolific scorer in the Saudi Pro League known for his pace and ability to appear in decisive moments.
Ali Al-Bulaihi
Centre-back 路 Al-Hilal
The defensive leader of the Saudi national team, with a solid career in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Bulaihi is known for his on-field leadership and being a defensive rock that gives the team confidence.
Firas Al-Buraikan
Forward / Winger 路 Al-Fateh
One of the most promising young talents in Saudi football. Al-Buraikan combines pace and technical skill, being considered one of the national team's future prospects for the cycle leading to the 2026 World Cup.
Path to Qualification
Saudi Arabia qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the AFC third round of qualifying. The growing level of Saudi football, driven by the Saudi Pro League and its attraction of world-class players, is reflected in the national team's increasing competitiveness in Asian qualifying.
As the future host of the 2034 World Cup, Saudi Arabia is in a full phase of football investment and development. Qualifying for 2026 is part of a long-term project to make Saudi football a world reference. Check out our host cities guide to plan your 2026 World Cup trip: /es/ciudades/
Match Schedule
Saudi Arabia's matches at the 2026 World Cup will be confirmed by FIFA after the official draw. Check back soon for the complete schedule with dates, venues, and times. Meanwhile, check out our host cities guide to plan your World Cup trip: /es/ciudades/
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Saudi Arabia really defeat Argentina at the 2022 World Cup?
Yes, Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina 2-1 in the Qatar 2022 group stage in one of the greatest upsets in football history. Argentina was leading 1-0 at half-time, but two second-half goals (Al-Shehri and Al-Dawsari) gave Saudi Arabia the victory. Argentina, who had gone 36 matches unbeaten, suffered their first defeat in three years.
Will Saudi Arabia host a World Cup?
Yes, Saudi Arabia was selected to host the 2034 World Cup. The country is massively investing in football infrastructure and national team development in preparation for that tournament. The 2026 World Cup is part of the preparation process for 2034.
What is Saudi Arabia's best World Cup result?
Saudi Arabia's best historical result is the Round of 16 at USA 1994, where they defeated Belgium. However, their most famous performance is the 2-1 victory over Argentina at Qatar 2022, considered the greatest upset in World Cup history.