It’s easy to write off Saudi Arabia at this World Cup.
The Green Falcons will be the second-lowest ranked team in Qatar and will bring with them a poor track record at the event.
Saudi Arabia have only made it out of the group stage once in six World Cup appearances.
The crowning glory came in their debut at the 1994 edition in USA where they collected two wins.
Since then, Saudi Arabia only managed one win in four tournaments – a 2-1 victory over Egypt in 2018.
And their chances of reaching the knockout stage in Qatar look slimmer after factoring in a tough Group C with 2021 Copa America champions Argentina, Mexico and Poland.
But write them off at your own risk.
Saudi Arabia had a strong World Cup qualifying campaign under the managerial reins of Herve Renard. They edged out Japan to finish top of Asia’s Group B with seven wins in 10 games.
The Green Falcons also eked out respectable goalless draws against Ecuador and USA in September’s friendlies.
Neutrals may be hard-pressed to find a recognisable name in Saudi’s squad as it is filled with players from the domestic Saudi Professional League.
However, the unknown quality could be a catalyst for a potential run in neighbouring Qatar.
Rising star Firas Al-Buraikan is expected to provide the firepower for Saudi Arabia, but veterans Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri are not to be overlooked too.