Saudi World Cup fans buzzing in Miami as players countdown to Uruguay opener

RIYADH: Saudi soccer fans in the US took part in a celebratory march in Miami on Saturday as the countdown begins to the Green Falcons’ opening World Cup game.

Organized by the Saudi National Team Fans Council, the march was a joyous event, with supporters proudly waving their national flags and chanting patriotic songs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The World Cup is now well underway, with all three host nations — Canada, Mexico and the US — having played their opening matches.

Saudi Arabia’s campaign in Group H begins against Uruguay in Miami on Tuesday. The Green Falcons will also play group games against Spain and Cape Verde and their fans are hoping they can progress to the knockout rounds for only the second time, following their memorable achievement at World Cup 1994, which was also held in the US.

As the fans were celebrating in Florida, Georgios Donis, the Saudi team’s Greek coach, was leading his players through a closed training session at the Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.

Midfielder Abdullah Al-Khaibari told the media that the team had been working hard at the daily training sessions and tactical meetings to ensure that they fully understood what Donis — who has been in charge of the side for just two months — wanted from them.

All of the players were now fully focused on working under Donis, he said, while also acknowledging the valuable work carried out by former boss Herve Renard.

Defender Moteb Al-Harbi said that the squad was now in its final phase of preparations and all of the players were determined to deliver a strong performance against Uruguay for their fans and the nation as a whole.

Another Saudi who is delighted to be at the World Cup is referee Abdullah Al-Shehri who described his