EN
Saudi Arabia extend unbeaten run; Iraq go down to Venezuela
Kuala Lumpur: Saudi Arabia played to a goalless draw with Senegal while Iraq fell to a 2-0 defeat to Venezuela in international friendlies ahead of their respective FIFA World Cup 2026 opening fixtures.
The draw extended Saudi Arabia's unbeaten run under Georgios Donis and provided another useful test ahead of their campaign in Group H with Spain, Uruguay and Cabo Verde their opponents.

Graham Arnold's Iraq side will look to regroup as they prepare for their Group I campaign against France, Senegal and Norway.

Senegal 0-0 Saudi Arabia
Donis' side entered the match looking to build on their 3-0 victory over Puerto Rico and made a bright start, with Firas Al Buraikan and Musab Al Juwayr forcing Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy into early saves.

Mohammed Abu Al Shamat came close with a header for Saudi Arabia, while Senegal threatened through El Hadji Malick Diouf and Cherif Ndiaye, whose powerful effort was tipped away by Mohammed Al Owais just before the break.
image content
The second half offered few clear opportunities as both sides appeared cautious with Moussa Niakhate's header well saved by Al Owais as Senegal enjoyed a stronger spell, but neither side was able to find a breakthrough.

Senegal's Nicolas Jackson was sent off in the 84th for a foul just 22 minutes after coming on as a substitute. 

Saudi Arabia kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign against Uruguay on Monday. 

Iraq 0-2 Venezuela
Cristian Caseres gave Venezuela the lead in the 17th minute before Jesus Ramirez doubled the advantage a minute after the restart with a composed finish.
image content
Venezuela remained in control throughout, while Iraq's hopes of a comeback were hampered when Ali Yousif was sent off in the 72nd minute.

Hussein Ali came close to pulling one back late on but Venezuela held firm to secure a comfortable victory as Iraq concluded their FIFA World Cup preparations, with Norway their first opponents on Tuesday. 

Photos: Saudi Arabian Football Federation, AFP