A strong start for the Green Falcons in the 2021 Arab Cup
The Saudi national team began its campaign in the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup, held in Qatar, with a valuable 2-1 victory over Oman in their opening match of Group C. This win puts the Green Falcons in a strong position to compete for one of the two qualifying spots for the quarterfinals.
The general context of the tournament and its importance
The 2021 edition of the Arab Cup is of particular importance, as it was held for the first time under the supervision of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) and constituted an operational rehearsal for the State of Qatar before it hosted the 2022 World Cup. For the Saudi national team, participation was strategic, as the Saudi Football Federation, in consultation with the technical director of the first team, Hervé Renard, decided to participate with the reserve team (Green B) made up of young players and promising talents, with the aim of giving them the opportunity to gain international exposure and experience, and to expand the base of options for the first team in the future.
Al-Akhdar's position in Group C
The Saudi national team is competing in the tough Group C, which also includes Morocco, Oman, and Comoros. After the first round of matches, the Saudi team shares the top spot in the group with Morocco, who secured a resounding 3-1 victory over Comoros. Both Saudi Arabia and Morocco now have 3 points, with Morocco holding the lead on goal difference.
Group standings after the first round:
- 1) Morocco: 3 points (goal difference +2)
- 2) Saudi Arabia: 3 points (goal difference +1)
- 3) Oman: 0 points
- 4) Comoros: 0 points
Qualification scenarios in the second round
The Saudi national team faces a seemingly easier match on paper against Comoros in the second round. This match is considered key to early qualification for the next stage. Here are the most likely scenarios:
- If Saudi Arabia wins: The Saudi national team will officially qualify for the quarterfinals, raising their points tally to 6. This victory will also officially eliminate the Comoros national team from the tournament after their second defeat.
- The impact of the other match: In the same round, Morocco will face Oman. The result of this match will be crucial in determining the shape of the competition for the top spot in the group in the final round. A Moroccan victory will also guarantee their qualification, leaving the battle for first place in the third round between them and Saudi Arabia. However, an Omani victory will intensify the competition for the second qualifying spot.
The decisive third round determines the leader
Regardless of the outcome of the second round, the match between Saudi Arabia and Morocco in the third round is likely to be the decisive one in determining the group leader. It's worth noting that the tournament system uses head-to-head results as the first tiebreaker between two or more teams, adding significant importance to this match. The opening victory against Oman gave the Green Falcons an advantage in their head-to-head record, a factor that could prove crucial in the complex qualification scenarios.
