Saudi Arabia has suffered a major setback ahead of their upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match against Pakistan with the injury of key player Salem Al-Dawsari. Al-Dawsari, a star winger and the AFC Player of the Year 2022, sustained an ankle injury during training and is expected to be out for at least two weeks.
The loss of Al-Dawsari is a significant blow to Saudi Arabia, who will be looking to secure a win against Pakistan to stay ahead in their qualifying group. Al-Dawsari's absence will be particularly felt in their attacking line, where he is known for his pace, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring prowess.
Saudi Arabia will be hoping for a quick recovery for Al-Dawsari, but his absence could force coach Hervé Renard to make some tactical changes ahead of the Pakistan clash. The Saudis will need to find a way to replace Al-Dawsari's creativity and attacking threat, and they will also need to be wary of Pakistan's own attacking potential.
Despite the setback, Saudi Arabia remains confident of their chances of beating Pakistan and continuing their unbeaten run in World Cup qualifying. They will be looking to rely on the experience of other players such as Saleh Al-Shehri, Fahad Al-Musallam, and Salman Al-Faraj to step up in Al-Dawsari's absence.
The match between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is scheduled to take place on November 16, 2023, at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium in Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia.