In four attempts since their historic 1994 debut where they reached the Round of 16, Saudi Arabia have not been able to navigate the group stage, and with their last appearance going all the way back to 2006, the Green Falcons will be hoping to show a different side to them in Russia 2018.
Part of our Expert View series, we look at how Juan Antonio Pizzi's men will line up at the World Cup, their chances, key players and predictions.
Our Saudi Arabia expert is Atef Nahass, a veteran Saudi football journalist who produced local guides for the 1982, 1986 and 1990 FIFA World Cup and followed the success of the Green Falcons since winning the 1984 AFC Asian Cup, throughout the 1988 title and the four consecutive World Cup appearances between 1994 to 2006.
What does Saudi Arabia expect from this World Cup?
The expectations are not high; Saudi Arabia have lost a golden opportunity to go into this World Cup with a stable and prepared side after parting ways with Bert van Marwijk who had led the team to the finals against the odds.
Bauza's brief stint was unsuccessful and now the hope is that Pizzi can strike the right balance, but it is very difficult considering the short span of time he's had to work with the players.
What's the most important thing for the team to do to have a successful World Cup?
I firmly believe that team spirit is vital for the team at this stage. For everyone to have the desire to represent Saudi Arabia in the best possible way at the World Cup; this should be the main driver for the players.
There is an unprecedented level of support from the authorities and all sports officials in the kingdom, so it is important for the players to be motivated by the desire to meet their fans' expectations.
Which player will have the biggest impact?
Nawaf Al Abid failing to fully recover from injury on time is undoubtedly a big blow for the team. He contributed significantly in the qualifiers, but there are a number of players who can make the difference. Fahad Al Muwallad's ability to decide games will be important, but Salem Al Dawsari is also in good form, and Osama Hawsawi's experience will also help a lot at the World Cup.
Which is your favourite World Cup memory?
Of course, our debut in 1994 remains the best memory for all Saudis. The team played great football and reached the Round of 16. It was a big success not just for Saudi, but for Asian football at the time when Asian teams didn't reach the knockout stages regularly. Saudi Arabia's success contributed to Asia getting additional spots at the World Cup.
Which one player from the past would benefit the current team the most, and why?
Definitely Saeed Al Owairan, he was such a big player for the national team. Our defence also could do with improvements, centre-back duo Ahmed Jamil and the late Mohammed Al Khilawi were the best defenders Saudi has ever had, so having them in this side would do wonders.
What do you predict the starting XI will be?
4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Yasser Al Mosaileem
Defence: Yasser Al Shahrani, Osama Hawsawi, Omar Hawsawi, Mansour Al Harbi
Midfield: Abdullah Otayf, Salman Al Faraj
Salem Al Dawsari, Taisir Al Jassim, Yahya Al Shehri
Forward: Fahad Al Muwallad
What are your predictions for the three group stage matches?
I'm not a big fan of the predictions game, but I think it will be a draw against Russia, provided the players can withstand the early pressure. Uruguay is a difficult one with Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani leading the line for them, so no chance there. The game against Egypt is like a derby; historically, Saudi Arabia get positive results against African teams at the World Cup, and we also beat Egypt 5-1 at the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup!
vs Russia: 2-2 Draw
vs Uruguay: 1-3 Defeat
vs Egypt: 2-1 Win
