Saudi Arabia is set to face Costa Rica in a friendly match at St James’ Park on Friday. This game marks their return to action under the new management of Roberto Mancini after a break since March.
Meanwhile, Costa Rica will also use this encounter as preparation for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League in November.
The Saudi Arabian team played two international friendlies earlier this year, following their exits from the World Cup and Gulf Cup group stages.
Despite a spirited performance, they suffered defeats against Oman and Bolivia. With their focus now turned towards the World Cup Qualifying campaign, the Green Falcons aim to make a winning start at St James’ Park under their new manager.
Costa Rica, on the other hand, had a disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign and suffered losses in friendly matches against Guatemala and Ecuador.
They then participated in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, where they faced Panama and secured a 2-1 win. However, they couldn’t progress further after a quarter-final defeat against Mexico.
Looking ahead, both teams have important fixtures on the horizon. While Saudi Arabia aims to secure a spot in the global competition group stage for the third time, Costa Rica looks forward to the CONCACAF Nations League. This friendly match serves as an opportunity for both teams to gain momentum and test their strategies.
Team News:
Saudi Arabia has called up a strong squad for the upcoming matches, with key players Fahad Al-Muwallad and Salem Al-Dawsari expected to play crucial roles.
They will be supported by forwards Firas Al-Buraikan and Abdullah Al-Hamdan, while experienced defenders Yasser Al-Shahrani and Ali Al-Bulaihi provide stability at the back.
Costa Rica will miss the presence of goalkeeper Keylor Navas but will rely on attacker Joel Campbell’s experience and leadership.
Anthony Contreras is likely to lead the line, while midfielders Celso Borges and Wilmer Azofeifa contribute to the team’s creativity. Defenders Juan Pablo Vargas and Kendall Watson form a solid partnership in defense.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Saudi Arabia:
- Al-Owais
- Al-Ghannam
- Al-Bulaihi
- Al-Shahrani
- Abdulhamid
- Kanno
- Al-Khaibari
- Al-Najei
- Al-Muwallad
- Al-Buraikan
- Al-Dawsari
Costa Rica:
- Chamorro
- Valverde
- Vargas
- Watson
- Calvo
- Azofeifa
- Borges
- Campbell
- Alcocer
- Madrigal
- Contreras
Prediction:
We anticipate an evenly contested match between Saudi Arabia and Costa Rica. While Costa Rica may have a slight advantage in terms of quality and experience, Saudi Arabia, under Mancini’s guidance, will be determined to avoid defeat and make a strong statement at St James’ Park. Draw 1 – 1