File Photo: Saudi Arabia’s national team coach Hervé Renard . AFP
Saudi Arabia are set to take on Egypt in a friendly at Jeddah’s Alinma Stadium on Friday, as part of both sides’ preparations for the competition.
"We are approaching the World Cup, and this camp is our last before the tournament begins," Renard told a pre-match press conference on Thursday. "It is of great importance to us to ensure the players are in peak condition."
"We are delighted to play against Egypt. Our goal is to deliver a strong performance before heading into another friendly against Serbia as part of our final preparations."
Addressing the selection of a large squad, the 57-year-old Frenchman explained that performance levels and regular playing time remain his primary criteria.
"Playing minutes are a decisive factor in my selections," Renard said. "This is why I have recently relied on Nawaf Al Aqidi as the starting goalkeeper; I am satisfied with his current form."
Renard also clarified the exclusion of veteran keeper Mohammed Al Owais, stating, "I used to rely on him in the past despite his lack of game time, but at this stage, it is difficult for him to return unless he is playing as a first-choice keeper. Therefore, I preferred not to call him up."
The coach noted that he had expected more players to seek transfers to secure more regular football, stressing the importance of professionalism.
"I have spoken with the players about the necessity of playing time, alongside physical aspects such as nutrition, sleep, and training, to guarantee they are ready for the World Cup," Renard added.
When asked about the team’s identity and progress, Renard admitted there is still work to be done.
"No coach is ever fully satisfied unless they win every match. We still have a lot of work ahead, especially since we are set to face formidable opponents like Spain and Uruguay, in addition to Cape Verde," he added.
"We have a core squad of 25 players, along with another group we are monitoring closely. Our ambition is to show a much better version of ourselves at the World Cup compared to our Arab Cup showing and to compete for an advanced position," he said.
Egypt are set to play two friendlies during their March camp against Saudi Arabia and Spain as they prepare for the World Cup kickoff in June.
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