In the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers’ second round, Saudi Arabia secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Pakistan at the Al-Fateh Stadium in Al-Hasa.
Despite an initially competitive performance from Pakistan in the first half, Saudi Arabia dominated the second half, scoring three additional goals.
Saleh Al-Shahri led the scoring with goals in the 6th and 48th minutes, followed by Abdul Rahman Ghareeb in the 91st minute and Abdullah Radif in the 96th minute.
The absence of Eash Suliman, due to injury, weakened Pakistan’s defense, allowing Saudi Arabia to maintain significant possession and emerge victorious as expected.
This marks Pakistan’s first participation in the second round of the Asian Qualifiers, with upcoming matches against Tajikistan, Jordan, and future fixtures in March and June determining qualification for the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers.
