. A win is welcome
This game was obviously a low-key and early warmup but victory was important and not just for confidence. After the impressive World Cup qualification campaign, the Green Falcons had not won a single match.
There were two defeats against Venezuela and Colombia and then goalless draws with Ecuador and the US. Had there been another failure to win it would have become an issue for Renard to eventually address.
Now that is off the agenda and the coach can go forward without having to worry too much about results, though a couple more victories in the coming friendly games will be welcome.
3. Al-Shehri is back
One of the biggest issues facing the team is obvious: A lack of firepower in front of goal.
All the four friendlies since clinching qualification have ended up with no Saudi Arabia goals with the saving grace that there have only been two conceded.
