A new triumph for Saudi football on the continental stage
In a remarkable achievement reflecting the significant progress of Saudi football, the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) announced its 2023 Asian Team of the Year, which featured a notable Saudi presence with the selection of Al-Hilal and Saudi national team stars Salem Al-Dawsari and Mohamed Kanno. This selection is a culmination of their outstanding careers and consistent performances throughout the year, both with their club and with the Saudi national team.
Background on the IFFHS award and its significance
The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) is a globally recognized body that documents and archives football records. Its annual awards, including the Continental Teams of the Year, are among the most prestigious accolades in the world of football, based on rigorous statistical analysis and player performances across various domestic, continental, and international competitions. A player's inclusion in these lists is a testament to their excellence and their place among the elite players of their continent.
Salem Al-Dawsari and Mohammed Kanno: Key pillars of the field
The selection of Al-Dawsari and Kanno was no surprise to observers, as they form the backbone of Al-Hilal and the Saudi national team. Salem Al-Dawsari, nicknamed "The Tornado," is known for his exceptional individual skills and ability to decide big matches, perhaps most notably his historic goal against Argentina in the 2012 World Cup. Mohammed Kanno, on the other hand, is a pivotal midfielder who combines physical strength with precise passing, playing a vital role in winning back possession and initiating attacks, thus providing his team with significant balance in midfield. The duo has been key to Al-Hilal's recent successes, including their strong performances in the AFC Champions League and the Saudi Professional League.
Expected impact and importance of achievement
This selection carries significant weight on several levels. Locally, it serves as an inspiration to young players in the Kingdom, underscoring the quality of Saudi talent and its ability to compete with the best players in Asia. Regionally, this achievement highlights the strength of the Saudi League, which has become a destination for the world's top stars, and confirms that local players are still capable of shining and maintaining their place among this constellation of stars. Internationally, this recognition enhances the reputation of Saudi football and solidifies its position as a leading footballing force in Asia, especially with the Kingdom hosting the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The complete squad for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup
It is worth noting that the Saudi duo were the only Arab players on the list, which amplifies the significance of this achievement. The 2023 AFC Asian Team of the Year, announced by the IFFHS, included: Mathew Ryan (Australia) in goal; Kim Min-jae (South Korea), Ali Al-Bulaihi (Saudi Arabia), and Harry Souttar (Australia) in defense; Mohamed Kanno (Saudi Arabia), Takefusa Kubo (Japan), and Kaoru Mitoma (Japan) in midfield; and Salem Al-Dawsari (Saudi Arabia), Son Heung-min (South Korea), Mehdi Taremi (Iran), and Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal – as a player for an Asian club).
