The eyes of football fans in the Arab world are turning towards the Qatari capital, Doha, where the Saudi national football team is preparing to face its Jordanian counterpart in a high-stakes match on Monday evening, as part of the semi-finals of the Arab Cup Qatar 2025. This match is of particular importance due to the historical rivalry between the two brotherly teams, and the desire of each to reach the final and claim the Arab title.
Al-Akhdar's readiness and the recovery challenge
At the pre-match press conference, Hervé Renard, the Saudi national team's coach, spoke with confidence and realism. Renard emphasized that the most important factor at this crucial stage of the tournament is "proper recovery," noting that the coaching and medical staff are working tirelessly to ensure the players are physically and mentally prepared after the considerable effort they exerted in the previous rounds. The veteran coach explained that the "Green Falcons" are fully prepared for this footballing challenge.
The fans... the 12th player
Renard did not overlook the pivotal role of the Saudi fans, noting the expectation of a massive turnout that could fill the stadium's 80,000-seat capacity. The French coach expressed his deep gratitude to the fans who endured long journeys and spent their money to support the national team, emphasizing that this support places a great responsibility on the players to repay it by fighting on the pitch and reaching the final to bring joy to the Saudi people.
A special relationship with Al-Salami and condolences to Al-Nuaimat
Regarding the tactical battle off the pitch, Renard spoke warmly of the Jordanian national team coach, Moroccan Jamal Sellami. Renard described Sellami as a "dear and close friend," reminiscing about their long collaboration during Renard's time managing the Moroccan national team. He praised Sellami's exceptional abilities in selecting outstanding players and reading matches, congratulating him on his recent achievements in qualifying for the World Cup and reaching the Arab Cup semi-finals.
In a gesture reflecting his high level of sportsmanship, Renard expressed his sympathy for Jordanian national team star Yazan Al-Naimat after his injury, emphasizing that injuries are the harsh reality of football, and citing the injury suffered by Saudi national team captain Salman Al-Faraj two years prior. Renard wished all the players a speedy recovery, stressing that the players' well-being remains the top priority.
Technical and tactical analysis of the opponent
Renard concluded his remarks by addressing the technical aspects, emphasizing that "fear has no place in the dictionary of football." He explained that the Saudi national team will enter the match with complete confidence and a clear attacking intent to score goals. The French coach also demonstrated a deep understanding of the Jordanian team's strengths, pointing to their defensive solidity and exceptional speed in attacking transitions. This, he stressed, requires the Saudi players to maintain the highest levels of focus and caution, while simultaneously utilizing their own superior technical abilities to secure a victory.
