• Saudi Arabia national team faces major challenges ahead of 2026 World Cup

Work has accelerated rapidly within the Saudi national team’s technical staff as Greek coach Georgios Donis officially begins his role in charge of the Green Falcons.

Donis and his coaching team have already started closely monitoring the performances of domestic players in the Saudi Pro League, as part of preparations to announce the final squad for the upcoming overseas training camp.

The Saudi national team is set to enter an intensive training camp in the United States, running from May 25 to June 11 next year, as part of the final phase of its World Cup preparation program for 2026.

The United States holds a special place in Saudi football history, having witnessed the national team’s landmark achievement at the 1994 World Cup, when it reached the Round of 16 for the first time.

The current generation now returns to the same stage with high ambitions, hoping to match or surpass that achievement, supported by a strong domestic league featuring several global stars.

During the camp, Saudi Arabia will play two high-profile friendlies, the first against Ecuador on May 30 in New Jersey, and the second against Senegal on June 9 in Texas.

Related reading: “Jordan’s Messi” under Argentina spotlight as media warn of Musa Al-Taamari threat

These matches will provide Donis with a key opportunity to assess player readiness and refine tactical plans ahead of the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia faces a tough group at the 2026 tournament, drawn alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde in Group Eight.

Under the new World Cup format, the top two teams will advance directly to the Round of 32, while the best third-placed teams will also have a chance to qualify, leaving the door open for the Green Falcons to pursue a new milestone in Saudi football.