Japan and Saudi Arabia Play Out Goalless Draw in World Cup Qualifier

Saudi Arabia ‘s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign saw little progress on Tuesday as they were held to a tame 0-0 draw by an already-qualified Japan side at Saitama Stadium. Despite Japan dominating possession in front of 58,000 fans, neither team could find a breakthrough.

The result does little to significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s position in Group C, where they remain third, behind Japan and Australia. Following a crucial but narrow 1-0 win over China last week, the Green Falcons needed a stronger performance against the group leaders.

Japan controlled the game from the outset, employing patient possession football. Left winger NAKAMURA Keita caused early problems for Saudi full-back Muhannad Al Shanqiti, leading to several Japanese attacks down that flank. Japan’s best chance of the first half came in the ninth minute when MAEDA Daizen struck the post after latching onto a through ball.

Saudi Arabia struggled to create meaningful opportunities. Their play often lacked cohesion, and when they did manage to break forward, support was limited, making Japan’s defensive task relatively straightforward. Their best chance fell to Al Shanqiti in the 22nd minute, but his header from a Nawaf Bu Washl cross went over the bar. Japanese goalkeeper SUZUKI Zion remained largely untroubled, his only notable action being a headed clearance outside his box.

Saudi manager Herve Renard replaced the struggling Al Shanqiti with Ali Hassan Majrashi at halftime. While Majrashi brought more physicality, Japan continued to dominate the ball. Substitute ITO Junya forced a good save from Saudi goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi in the 82nd minute, and fellow substitute MINAMINO Takumi headed wide shortly after.

Despite Japan’s territorial advantage, clear-cut chances remained scarce for both sides, leading to a predictable goalless stalemate. The lack of urgency, particularly from Japan who had already secured qualification, contributed to the uneventful nature of the match. Saudi Arabia now face crucial remaining fixtures to secure their path to the 2026 World Cup.