In a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Saudi Arabia edged past China with a 1-0 win at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh on March 20, 2025. The lone goal came from the boots of Salem Al-Dawsari early in the second half, shortly after China was reduced to ten men. With this victory, the Saudis not only secured three vital points but also strengthened their chances of qualifying from a tightly contested Group C in the AFC Third Round.
Pre-Match Pressure and Context
Heading into this matchup, both Saudi Arabia and China were desperate for points. Saudi Arabia had drawn four of their last seven matches, showing inconsistency despite their solid squad depth. China, meanwhile, found themselves in a must-win situation, struggling near the bottom of the table. With only two matches left after this one, every point had become a lifeline.
The match took place in front of a passionate crowd of over 24,000 fans at Al-Awwal Park, with local supporters fully backing the Green Falcons. The atmosphere was electric, and tension was palpable from the opening whistle.
First Half: Tactical Balance Turns Chaotic
The first half started with Saudi Arabia clearly taking the initiative. They dominated possession, keeping the ball for nearly 80% of the first 45 minutes. Their midfield, led by Faisal Al-Ghamdi and Nasser Al-Dawsari, circulated the ball well, looking for gaps in the Chinese defense. Despite several attacking movements, the Chinese defense held firm, led by their captain Zhang Linpeng.
China, on the other hand, focused on a counter-attacking approach, trying to exploit spaces left behind by the Saudi full-backs. Their plan was working to an extent, but they failed to register a single shot on target throughout the half.
However, the game dramatically shifted right before halftime. In stoppage time of the first half, Chinese winger Lin Liangming received a straight red card for a reckless and dangerous tackle on Saudi defender Hassan Kadesh. It was a moment that stunned Chinese fans and changed the entire tone of the match.
Second Half: Al-Dawsari Delivers
With China down to ten men, Saudi Arabia quickly adjusted their game plan. Just five minutes into the second half, Salem Al-Dawsari, the team’s veteran playmaker, stepped up with a clinical finish. A well-worked passing move allowed Al-Dawsari to find space inside the penalty box, and he coolly side-footed the ball past Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei to put the home team ahead.
The goal was a deserved reward for Saudi Arabia’s dominance in possession and pressure. From there on, they controlled the tempo of the match, ensuring that China had very few opportunities to stage a comeback.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, China showed great spirit. They tightened their formation and tried to launch the occasional counter-attack, but Saudi Arabia’s backline, especially Al-Tambakti and Nawaf Boushal, stayed organized and alert.
Statistical Domination
The match statistics painted a clear picture of Saudi Arabia’s control over the game. They had 79.5% of the possession, took 19 shots (7 on target), and earned five corners. In comparison, China only managed four shots with none on target. Their goalkeeper, Wang Dalei, made seven saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
China committed 13 fouls compared to Saudi Arabia’s eight and received the only red card of the match. Despite playing over 45 minutes with ten men, their defensive structure remained relatively disciplined, but the early dismissal made it too difficult to mount any sort of effective attack.
What This Means for Group C
With this win, Saudi Arabia climbs to third place in Group C with 10 points from eight games. This puts them just behind Australia, who currently sit on 13 points. Japan comfortably leads the group with 20 points, almost guaranteed to qualify.
China, however, remains stuck at the bottom of the table with six points. With only two games left to play, their chances of making it to the next stage are now incredibly slim. They will need a miracle—winning both remaining matches and hoping for multiple favorable results from other teams—to even have a shot at progression.
Player of the Match: Salem Al-Dawsari
The standout player was undoubtedly Salem Al-Dawsari. His calmness in front of goal, combined with his leadership and creativity, made him a constant threat throughout the match. This was his second goal of the qualifying campaign, and perhaps his most important yet.
His ability to find pockets of space and unlock defenses remains a critical asset for Saudi Arabia, especially with high-stakes matches looming.
China’s Frustration Continues
This result continues a disappointing campaign for China, who came into the third round with hopes of at least a playoff spot. Their lack of creativity in midfield and inability to convert half-chances into goals have cost them dearly. Discipline has also been a concern, with two red cards in the last three matches.
Coach Aleksandar Janković now faces an uphill task not only to boost morale in the dressing room but also to finish the campaign with some pride intact.
Saudi Arabia’s Road Ahead
With two matches left in the group stage, Saudi Arabia must now turn their attention to the fixtures against Bahrain and Australia. Both matches are must-win situations if they aim to clinch second place or at least a playoff berth.
Coach Roberto Mancini has worked hard to rebuild confidence in the team and promote young talents like Aiman Yahya and Feras Al-Brikan. If the squad maintains this level of discipline and focus, qualification is still within reach.
Conclusion: A Win That Keeps the Dream Alive
Saudi Arabia’s narrow 1-0 win over China was more than just three points—it was a statement of intent. With their World Cup hopes still alive, the Green Falcons showed grit, composure, and tactical intelligence, capitalizing fully on China’s red card setback.
China, on the other hand, will look back at this match with regret, knowing that one moment of recklessness may have ended their World Cup dreams. As the group stage nears its conclusion, the race for qualification intensifies, and every goal, card, and substitution becomes part of the bigger story.
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