Saudi Arabia secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Iraq at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah on Tuesday, booking their spot in the expanded 48-team tournament. The result also concluded an emotional chapter for coach Hervé Renard, who led the team to qualification after returning to the helm in October 2024 following Roberto Mancini’s departure.
A Personal Milestone for Renard
Renard’s emotions ran deep as he reflected on the significance of the draw. The French coach was moved by his mother’s memory, as she had passed away in early 2025. She had been in the stands at Lusail Stadium during Saudi Arabia’s historic victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. Renard recalled their last conversation, where she had told him, “I won’t be able to see you at the next World Cup, but do your best to qualify the team.”
“It was a very emotional moment for me,” Renard shared. “I believe she’s watching over me.” His journey through this challenging period added even greater meaning to the achievement of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Saudi Arabia’s Successful Qualification
The 0-0 result against Iraq on Tuesday ensured Saudi Arabia topped Group B in the Asian qualifiers, confirming their place alongside teams such as Japan, Korea Republic, Australia, and Iran. Renard praised the passionate home crowd for their pivotal role in helping the team reach the finish line. “The fans really drove the players forward,” Renard said. “Even though Salem Al-Dawsari was named man of the match, tonight the real stars were the fans. It wasn’t easy a few months ago, but we made it and that’s what matters most.”
Saudi Arabia’s qualification is a significant achievement in a tough group, and the performance at King Abdullah Sports City was a testament to their resilience.
Iraq’s Path Forward
Iraq, who finished second in Group B, also earned a chance to progress to the next stage of qualification. Head coach Graham Arnold, while disappointed by the draw, encouraged his team and supporters to remain hopeful. Iraq will now face the UAE in a two-legged playoff in November.
“The players gave me everything,” Arnold said. “We ended the group with four points and didn’t concede a single goal. We’re still in the race, and I urge the Iraqi media and fans to stay positive our World Cup journey continues.”
Despite their struggles, including the injury of key player Aymen Hussein, Arnold remains optimistic about Iraq’s chances. He noted that while Iraq hasn’t qualified for a World Cup since 1986, they often make things difficult for themselves. “Iraq always seems to do things the hard way,” he remarked. Arnold’s experience in leading Australia to qualification via the playoffs in 2022 gives him confidence that Iraq can follow a similar path.
Arnold’s belief in his team remains strong as they prepare for the crucial matches ahead. “The players need to return to their clubs, work hard, and prepare for what’s ahead. With Australia, I qualified through the playoffs. It’s not how you get there it’s about getting there.”
Looking Ahead
While Saudi Arabia celebrate their qualification, Iraq’s journey is far from over. The playoff matches in November will be pivotal for both teams as they continue to strive for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For more on the UAE’s qualification process, check out how they can still make it despite recent setbacks in their qualifiers here.
