Media Kampung – 31 Maret 2026 | Saudi Arabia secured a 1-0 victory over Serbia in an international friendly at TSC Arena, Backa Topola, on March 31, 2026. The lone goal arrived early in the first half.
The match opened with Saudi’s Al‑Hamdan striking in the 5th minute, giving the Green Falcons an immediate lead. Serbian defense struggled to contain the quick advance.
Serbia, still reeling from a 3-0 loss to Spain three days earlier, pressed forward but failed to convert chances. Their attacks were marked by misplaced finishes.
Saudi Arabia entered the game after a 4-0 defeat to Egypt, seeking to rebuild confidence before the World Cup. The friendly offered a platform to test tactics ahead of their June 16 opener against Uruguay.
At the 22‑minute mark, tension rose when Saudi midfielder Mohamed Kanno received a yellow card for a harsh challenge. The referee issued the caution without controversy.
By the 33rd minute, Serbia intensified their pressure, sending the ball into the Saudi penalty area where Jovic collided with Al‑Mufarrij. The referee allowed play to continue, denying a potential free‑kick.
The half‑time whistle confirmed a 0-1 scoreline, with Saudi maintaining their advantage despite Serbian dominance in possession. The fourth official signaled at least two minutes of added time.
In the second half, Serbia attempted to force an equaliser through quick wing play but lacked precision in the final third. Saudi’s disciplined defensive shape limited Serbian opportunities.
Coach of Serbia, Dragan Stojković, remarked after the match that the team “needs to improve finishing and mental sharpness”. He emphasized the importance of learning from the defeat.
Saudi coach Hervé Renard praised his side’s resilience, noting “the early goal set the tone, and the players stayed focused”. He highlighted the match as a useful rehearsal for the upcoming World Cup.
The result leaves Saudi Arabia on a positive trajectory as they prepare for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Their next challenge will be the group‑stage clash with Uruguay.
For Serbia, the loss underscores the gap that kept them out of the World Cup, prompting calls for strategic adjustments. The federation will likely review squad selection ahead of future qualifiers.
Attendance at the TSC Arena was modest but enthusiastic, with local supporters cheering both sides. The match provided a rare opportunity for Serbian fans to see their national team play at home.
Overall, the friendly delivered a clear win for Saudi Arabia and a disappointing outing for Serbia, shaping both teams’ outlooks for the remainder of the year. The fixture concluded without further incidents.
Analysts note that Saudi Arabia’s defensive solidity and swift transition could be decisive in the World Cup group stage. Serbia, meanwhile, must rebuild confidence and integrate younger talent to remain competitive in future European campaigns.
Artikel ini dipublikasikan oleh Media Kampung.
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