Saudi Arabia returned to the World Cup in 1998, looking to improve on their 1994 knockout-round exit. Under Mohammed Al-Kharashy, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 1 | 8 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6 | -3 | 2 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 7 | -5 | 1 |
Saudi Arabia's campaign never truly ignited, and a group stage exit brought an early end to their World Cup hopes. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
Saudi Arabia endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a narrow 0-1 loss to Denmark, a heavy 0-4 defeat to France, and a 2-2 draw with South Africa. Saudi Arabia's tournament ended at the the opening round, a campaign that never truly got going.
1drawn2lost
2scored7conceded
Winless throughout failed to score in 2 of 3 matches.
Yousuf Al-Thunayan led Saudi Arabia's attack with 1 goal at the 1998 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Al-Jaber, both with 1.
2of 2 goals from the spot
The tactical mind behind Saudi Arabia's 1998 campaign. A Brazilian at the helm winless under Al-Kharashy.
The Saudi team relied on defensive solidity but struggled to create scoring opportunities against stronger opponents. Their limited squad size also became an issue as they faced stiff competition for playing time.
