Good Show and Defeat Expected

March 1st, 2006 | by: Shahed | Comments Off

Saudi Arabia lost today to Portugal 3-0 in a friendly game played in Germany. The defeat was expected as Saudi Arabia was playing a powerful team with all their star players.

The Saudis cautiously started the game with a 5-4-1 formation, in order to increase the presence in the middle of the field. However, Portgual were able to control the ball around that part more often in the beginning.

What upset most people in the game against Portugal, is that the Saudi did not perform or play as they usually play at home.

With changes in the second half, the Saudis were starting to get a grasp of the game and have a bit more control.

Important Observations of the Game:

Ground balls caused the most harm to the Saudis
The Saudis need to play more bigger teams
There are gaps in the defense and needs to be reinforced firmly
The players got physically tired and moving without the ball was important

Best Saudi Player during the Game:

Muhammad Al Daeya – saved multiple shots from the Portugalese players and one from a close range that was superb.