Saudi Arabia vs Iraq Preview & Prediction | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying (AFC)
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It’s winner-takes-all between Saudi Arabia and Iraq in the battle for World Cup qualification with the former’s goal tally giving them the advantage.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / US – Not televised
How to watch online: UK – OneFootball / US – OneFootball
Key stats
- Saudi Arabia have won five of the previous six World Cup qualifying matches between these teams (D1).
- Saudi Arabia have lost only three of their last 30 World Cup qualifying matches in Saudi Arabia (W23 D4).
- Iraq have lost only three of their last 20 World Cup qualifying matches (W12 D5).
- Iraq have won their last two World Cup qualifying matches by one goal to nil.
- Iraq have kept 11 clean sheets in their last 15 World Cup qualifying matches.
Saudi Arabia vs Iraq prediction
Both Saudi Arabia and Iraq got the better of Indonesia, setting up this final showdown in Group B. Saudi Arabia found the net three times against Indonesia in a 3-2 victory, whilst Iraq were 1-0 winners, meaning that a draw here would send the Green Falcons through on goals scored. This means it will be down to Iraq to force the issue offensively.
It’s not been plain sailing for Saudi Arabia over the course of their qualification campaign but they look to be peaking at the right time. They boast a stacked squad full of big game experience whilst Iraq are in close to uncharted territory, having not qualified for the World Cup since 1986, their sole experience at the tournament. In a game of such magnitude, Saudi Arabia have to be favoured, especially with home advantage being in their favour.
Saudi Arabia vs Iraq tip: Saudi Arabia to win
