AFC Asian Cup
However, the last of their titles was won in 1996 while the defeat in the 2007 final to Iraq was followed by group stage exits in the following two editions and a Round of 16 elimination in UAE 2019.
Factfile
FIFA World Ranking: 57
Previous Appearances: 10
Best Finish: Champions - 1984, 1988, 1996
2019 Result: Round of 16
Head Coach: Roberto Mancini (ITA)
Fun Fact: Saudi Arabia won the first of their titles when making their AFC Asian Cup debut in 1984
Previous Appearances: 10
Best Finish: Champions - 1984, 1988, 1996
2019 Result: Round of 16
Head Coach: Roberto Mancini (ITA)
Fun Fact: Saudi Arabia won the first of their titles when making their AFC Asian Cup debut in 1984
Saudi Arabia, however, are set to roar again after an exciting FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 campaign which saw them stunning eventual champions Argentina in the group stage.
In Roberto Mancini, the West Asian side have a highly experienced coach with the tactical nous to end their long wait for a fourth continental title.
What makes Saudi Arabia among the pre-tournament favourites is their blend of players, with rising talent fitting in perfectly with experienced stars.
Mancini, appointed in August, has familiarised himself with his players after a series of friendlies and the recent Preliminary Joint Qualification - Round 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, with Saudi Arabia winning both their opening Group G matches.
Saudi Arabia's Group F fixtures
January 16
v Oman (20:30 local time, Khalifa International Stadium)
January 21
v Kyrgyz Republic (20:30 local time, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium)
January 25
v Thailand (18:00 local time, Education City Stadium)
January 16
v Oman (20:30 local time, Khalifa International Stadium)
January 21
v Kyrgyz Republic (20:30 local time, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium)
January 25
v Thailand (18:00 local time, Education City Stadium)
