In a new step that underscores the remarkable acceleration in the development of women's football in Saudi Arabia, the training camp for the national under-20 women's team kicked off today in Jeddah. The camp, which is scheduled to run until February 21st, is part of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's long-term strategic plan aimed at building successive generations of players capable of competing at all levels and raising the technical and physical readiness of the national youth teams.
Historical context and rapid development
Interest in women's football in Saudi Arabia is no longer just an idea; it has become a tangible reality that is developing day by day. Over the past few years, women's sports have witnessed unprecedented support in line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. This was manifested in the launch of the first official women's league (the Saudi Women's Premier League) and the formation of the first national women's team, which played its first international match in 2022. The establishment of age-group teams, such as the under-20 women's national team, is the most important link in this system, as it ensures a continuous flow of talent and prepares them to represent the senior national team in the future, creating a clear sporting path for talented girls throughout the Kingdom.
The importance of the camp and its expected impact
This training camp is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, it presents a valuable opportunity for the coaching staff to closely assess the players, refine their skills, implement new tactical plans, and foster harmony and team spirit. Regionally and internationally, building a strong youth national team is the first step towards participating in future continental tournaments organized by the Asian Football Confederation, and subsequently, towards qualifying for international events such as the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. A young and competitive Saudi national team will enhance the Kingdom's standing on the Asian and global women's sports map.
Player roster and preparation program
The national team's coaching staff has called up 24 players to join the training camp: Dima Sheikh, Al-Jawhara Turki, Sarah Nayef, Layan Amir, Aseel Ahmed, Tulin Al-Ghamdi, Mawada Al-Maghribi, Maria Baghfar, Joan Al-Nassar, Maha Al-Badrani, Reem Shadi, Miral Daghistani, Jude Al-Amoudi, Lulu Abdullah, Lama Thamer, Rimas Ahmed, Zahra Talib, Dana Al-Dahyan, Yasmin Malibari, Zainab Reda, Lamar Wael, Heba Ohashi, Malakout Al-Salem, and Kenzi Alaa. The camp's training program will include intensive technical and tactical training, along with physical conditioning exercises, with the aim of bringing the players to peak readiness for upcoming competitions.
