Saudi Arabia was right to fire Mancini

Coach Mancini was criticized in Saudi Arabia. Photo: Reuter s

In the early morning of October 15, Saudi Arabia held Iraq to a 0-0 draw, thereby winning two tickets to represent Asia at the 2026 World Cup with Qatar. In just a short time, Coach Renard has changed the face of the Saudi Arabian team, helping the country play better and regain its original form. He also proved that SAFF's choice was correct.

Before Renard returned, Saudi Arabia had a poor run of form under Roberto Mancini. In a total of 20 games under his leadership, the Italian coach only won 8, drew 7 and lost 5. His lack of style of play and inconsistent results turned many fans away.

In the third qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup in Asia, Saudi Arabia had a shaky start and only ranked third in Group C with 5 points after 4 matches, equal to Australia but with a lower goal difference.

However, under Renard's leadership, the team gradually regained stability. Saudi Arabia won 2, drew 2 and lost 2 matches, enough to qualify for the next round.

Coach Renard is attending the World Cup for the second time with the Saudi Arabia team. Photo: Reuters ,

In the final qualifying round, Renard and his team continued to prove their mettle. Saudi Arabia defeated Indonesia 3-2 and drew 0-0 with Iraq, thereby winning the last two Asian tickets to the 2026 World Cup with Qatar.

This is the third consecutive World Cup that Saudi Arabia has participated in, and the achievement shows consistency and the right direction after the decision to change the coaching bench.

Renard is not only highly regarded for his tactics, but also for creating a strong bond between the players. The image of him celebrating with his students, even bowing and kissing the hand of midfielder Saleh Abu Al-Shamat after the draw with Iraq, spread a message of solidarity and respect within the team. This is in contrast to the disjointed atmosphere under Mancini.

Clearly, SAFF made the right decision at the right time and with the right person. The reappointment of Renard will not only help Saudi Arabia overcome the crisis, but also open up the opportunity to make a mark on the biggest football festival on the planet in 2026.

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Source: https://znews.vn/saudi-arabia-da-dung-khi-sa-thai-mancini-post1593912.html