Saudi national team continue preparations for crucial World Cup qualifier against Japan

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The Saudi Arabian national football team continued their preparations on Sunday evening ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Japan in the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Supplied/SAFF)
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The Saudi Arabian national football team continued their preparations on Sunday evening ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Japan in the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Supplied/SAFF)
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The Saudi Arabian national football team continued their preparations on Sunday evening ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Japan in the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Supplied/SAFF)
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The Saudi Arabian national football team continued their preparations on Sunday evening ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Japan in the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Supplied/SAFF)
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Updated 23 March 2025
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Saudi national team continue preparations for crucial World Cup qualifier against Japan

  • Saudi Arabia will be looking to secure a positive result to keep their World Cup hopes alive

SAITAMA, Japan: The Saudi Arabian national football team continued their preparations on Sunday evening ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Japan in the eighth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.

Under the guidance of head coach Herve Renard, the Green Falcons trained at Saitama Stadium 2002, where they focused on tactical drills following a warm-up session.

The training concluded with a full-pitch game between two groups before wrapping up with stretching exercises.

The team will hold its final training session on Monday at 7:00 PM (Japan time). The first 15 minutes of the session will be open to the media, offering a glimpse into the squad’s final preparations.

Meanwhile, Renard is set to address the media in a pre-match press conference at 6:00 PM (Japan time) in the stadium’s press conference hall. He is expected to discuss the team’s strategy and readiness for the encounter.

Saudi Arabia will be looking to secure a positive result against Japan as they continue their quest for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.


Dubai Basketball launches ‘Basket for Basket’ Ramadan initiative

Updated 24 February 2026
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Dubai Basketball launches ‘Basket for Basket’ Ramadan initiative

  • Project with Dubai Sports Council and UAE Food Bank takes place at EuroLeague match on Thursday

DUBAI: Dubai Basketball has announced a special Ramadan initiative for its upcoming EuroLeague home fixture against LDLC ASVEL on Thursday, Feb. 26.

In the spirit of giving that defines the holy month, the team will donate one meal for every point scored by the home team during the game. In addition, every ticket purchased for the game will equal one meal donated to families in need across the UAE.

Delivered in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Food Bank, the initiative reflects Dubai Basketball’s commitment to creating meaningful social impact beyond the court, the team stated in a release on Tuesday.

As Dubai’s first professional sports franchise competing in European competitions, the team wants to be a competitive force internationally and community-driven institution.

Dejan Kamenjasevic, CEO of Dubai Basketball, highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Ramadan is a time of reflection, unity and generosity.

“As a team that proudly represents Dubai on an international stage, we believe our responsibility goes far beyond basketball. This city has given us an incredible platform, support system and belief, and it is our duty to give back in a way that reflects the values of the nation.”

“Through this initiative, every point scored, and every ticket purchased becomes something bigger than the game.

“Our ambition is not only to compete at the highest level in Europe but also to build a team that contributes to the community and supports the people who make the Dubai dream possible.”