Australia vs Saudi Arabia Prediction, H2H, Lineups | AFC World Cup Qualifiers, Nov. 14, 2024

Australia vs Saudi Arabia: Preview, Prediction, Team News, Head to Head and Predicted Lineups | AFC World Cup Qualifiers.

Overview

Match: Australia vs Saudi Arabia
Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Kick-Off Time: 9:10 AM GMT
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne, Australia
Australia Coach: Tony Popovic
Saudi Arabia Coach: Herve Renard
Last Meeting Result: Saudi Arabia 1-0 Australia (2022 World Cup Qualifiers)

Australia and Saudi Arabia National Football Teams face off in a high-stakes encounter in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers’ third round. Both teams have accumulated the same number of points after four matchdays, with Australia currently leading Group C on goal difference. With six matches remaining in this qualification stage, both teams are focused on securing direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Match Preview: Current Form & Key Insights

Australia’s Performance Snapshot

Australia’s recent form has shown both promise and inconsistency. Over their last six matches, the Australian team has secured three wins, two draws, and one loss, scoring 11 goals and conceding just three. With strong offensive and defensive records, Australia will look to leverage its depth and quality to secure a win on home soil.

Recent Form (Last 6 Matches):

Wins: 3
Draws: 2
Losses: 1
Goals Scored: 11
Goals Conceded: 3

Australia’s squad combines seasoned veterans and rising stars, making them one of the stronger contenders in Group C. Playing at home in Melbourne, the Socceroos will aim to capitalize on the support of their fans.

Saudi Arabia’s Recent Matches

Saudi Arabia’s recent performances have been more challenging, with only two wins, two draws, and two losses in their last six encounters. Despite recent difficulties, one promising statistic for Saudi Arabia is their five-game unbeaten run in away matches. This resilience away from home could be crucial as they face Australia in Melbourne.

Recent Form (Last 6 Matches):

Wins: 2
Draws: 2
Losses: 2
Goals Scored: 6
Goals Conceded: 5

Since Herve Renard returned to the role of head coach, he’s focused on solidifying the team’s attacking strategies, which have lagged in recent matches. Renard’s tactical approach aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s offensive presence, which is vital as they prepare to face a formidable Australian side.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Australia National Football Team News

Formation: 3-4-3
Australian head coach Tony Popovic has no significant injury or suspension concerns, allowing him to field a strong lineup. The team will likely maintain its favored 3-4-3 formation.

Australia National Football Team Predicted Lineup:

Goalkeeper: Ryan
Defenders: Geria, Souttar, Burgess
Midfielders: Miller, Brattan, Irvine, Bos
Forwards: McGree, Duke, Hrustic

Saudi Arabia National Football Team News

Formation: 4-3-3
Several key Saudi players, including Abdulelah Al Amri, Abdulelah Al Malki, and Salem Al-Dawsari, will miss this match. Herve Renard is expected to experiment with alternative options to establish his best starting lineup.

Saudi Arabia National Football Team Predicted Lineup:

Goalkeeper: Kassar
Defenders: Hamed, Tambakti, Lajami, Kadesh
Midfielders: Alkhaibari, Asmari, Dawsari
Forwards: Yahya, Al-Buraikan, Sahafi

Australia vs Saudi Arabia: Head-to-Head Record

Australia and Saudi Arabia have faced each other multiple times in recent years, yielding closely contested matches. In their last five encounters, Australia has the upper hand with two wins, Saudi Arabia has one win, and two matches ended in draws.

Result	Year & Competition
Saudi Arabia 1-0 Australia	2022, World Cup Qualifiers
Australia 0-0 Saudi Arabia	2021, World Cup Qualifiers
Australia 3-2 Saudi Arabia	2017, World Cup Qualifiers
Saudi Arabia 2-2 Australia	2016, World Cup Qualifiers
Saudi Arabia 2-3 Australia	2014, International Friendly

Key Players to Watch

Australia National Football Team

Matthew Ryan
Matthew Ryan, Australia’s experienced goalkeeper and one of the national team’s leaders, plays for Roma in Italy’s Serie A. Known for his composure and shot-stopping ability, Ryan’s international experience will be essential in this match.

Harry Souttar
A towering defender known for his aerial prowess, Harry Souttar currently plays for Sheffield United on loan from Leicester City. Souttar’s defensive solidity and ability to initiate play from the back make him a crucial player for Australia’s 3-4-3 setup.

Saudi Arabia National Football Team

Salem Al-Dawsari
Though he will miss this match, Salem Al-Dawsari remains a notable figure for Saudi Arabia. His pace and playmaking skills have been instrumental in Saudi Arabia’s attacking front. His absence will be a challenge for the team.

Abdulelah Al Amri
Abdulelah Al Amri’s role in defense has been vital for Saudi Arabia in recent games. His ability to organize the backline and provide stability under pressure has made him a reliable asset for the team.

Australia vs Saudi Arabia Prediction and Scoreline

Both teams are competitive, and given their close rankings, this encounter promises to be a tight contest. Australia’s advantage on home ground and recent consistent performance give them a slight edge over Saudi Arabia but we will give them a draw.

Soccerbaba Predicted Score: Australia 2-2 Saudi Arabia

Where to Watch: Australia vs Saudi Arabia Live

Country	Broadcast
UK	Sky Sports
USA	ESPN
India	FanCode
Australia	Paramount+
Saudi Arabia	beIN Sports
Nigeria	SuperSport
South Africa	SuperSport
Ghana	SuperSport

Australia’s encounter with Saudi Arabia National Football Team is set to be a fiercely competitive fixture, with both teams focused on strengthening their positions in the AFC Qualifiers standings. The Socceroos hope to utilize their home advantage, while Saudi Arabia looks to build on their unbeaten away record. Football fans can look forward to an exciting match as both nations strive to move closer to FIFA World Cup qualification.