Can Saudi Arabia still qualify for Round of 32 of FIFA World Cup 2026?

Saudi Arabia reached the Round of 16 of the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Drawn in Group H with Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia commenced their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay last week.

In their opening game, the Green Falcons drew 1-1 with the two-time champions. With confidence, they entered the second group-stage game. They faced European heavyweights and 2010 FIFA World Cup champions Spain.

In their second group-stage match, they faced La Roja, who were dissatisfied with the result of their last game. The European champions were held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde. Thus, while facing the Green Falcons, Luis de la Fuente’s men put their foot on the accelerator.

Lamine Yamal broke the deadlock early in the game (10′), courtesy of Mikel Oyarzabal’s assist. Oyarzabal, who failed to get a touch on the ball for the first 30 minutes against Cape Verde, scored the second goal for La Roja with a close-range finish. Later, the 29-year-old completed his brace before Al Tambakti’s own goal helped La Roja take a 4-0 lead.

Now, the question arises: Can Saudi Arabia still qualify for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup?

Also Read: Can Türkiye still qualify for Round of 32 of FIFA World Cup 2026?

What are the chances of Saudi Arabia getting into the knockout round?

The Green Falcons still have a chance of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage. However, the chances are very slim. Their fate is beyond their control.

Firstly, Saudi Arabia would have to win their last group stage game against Cape Verde. The win will help them rack up four important points in their group table. However, their qualification also depends on the outcome of the remaining Group H games.

While Spain have almost secured a position in the knock-out round, Uruguay and Cape Verde will also have the chance to do the same, depending on the game between them.

As a result, Saudi Arabia will have a chance to qualify for the knockout round as one of the eight best-ranked among the 12 third-placed teams. To get the same result, they will have to wait until the last group stage game, which will take place on June 29, later this month.

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