Saudi Arabia at the World Cup

Saudi Arabia had a delayed introduction to the world game, as the royal family had forbidden football in the kingdom until 1951. Saudi Arabia have participated in seven previous World Cups, in 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022 and 2026.

The country's greatest achievement was reaching the last sixteen at the first appearance at the World Cup in 1994. Shock wins over Belgium and Morocco saw them reach the second round, where Sweden proved too strong and triumphed 3-1.

In 2022, the Saudi Arabia team achieved one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, defeating one of the tournament favorites Argentina 2-1 in their opening game. However, it was not enough to progress out of the group stage.

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

1994

Saudi Arabia reached the Round of 16 of the 1994 FIFA World Cup, but lost 1-3 to Sweden.

1998

Saudi Arabia didn't make it out of Group C at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

2002

Saudi Arabia didn't make it out of Group E at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

2006

Saudi Arabia didn't make it out of Group H at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

2018

Saudi Arabia didn't make it out of Group A at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

2022

Saudi Arabia didn't make it out of Group C at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

2026

Saudi Arabia qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their third consecutive appearance at the finals. They were drawn into Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde.

Saudi Arabia opened with a promising 1–1 draw against two-time champions Uruguay, but a heavy 4–0 defeat to Spain and a goalless draw with debutants Cape Verde left them bottom of the group with 2 points. They were eliminated at the group stage for the second consecutive World Cup.