Following their jaw-dropping opening win over Argentina, Saudi Arabia were looking to secure their spot in the knockout stage with a win over Poland. But despite a valiant display, the Green Falcons couldn’t find any way past the formidable Wojciech Szczesny, while the Europeans were more lethal upfront, scoring in each half courtesy of Piotr Zielinski and Robert Lewandowski. So here are our player ratings for Saudi Arabia who sustained their first defeat in the tournament at the hands Poland.
Saudi Arabia (4-3-3)
Mohammed Al Owais – 6
Surprisingly, the KSA shot-stopper didn’t have plenty to do against Lewandowski and company. He was blameless on both goals and was bailed out by the woodwork and the post on two occasions.
Saud Abdulhamid – 7
A thrilling outing from the versatile fullback who started his match on the right lane before switching to the left following the break. Regardless of his position, he caused havoc whenever darting forward.
Abdulelah Al Amri – 6.5
A solid performance at the back from the centre-back who managed to limit Milik’s danger. Though his energy level dropped as the match progressed.
Ali Al-Boleahi – 6.5
The defender fought hard against Lewandowski and received a step on the hand for his efforts. Nonetheless, he shook off the injury and went straight back to the pitch.
Mohammed Al Burayk – 6
The left-back was enjoying a decent outing until the first goal which came from his own flank. Things went downhill afterwards, culminating in his exit at the 65th minute.
Sami Al-Najei – 5
A forgettable outing from the midfielder who rarely made himself noticed and was hauled off by Hervé Renard at half-time.
Abdulelah Al Malki – 5
The central midfielder sat deep in front of the defense. It was an okay performance until committing a massive howler which allowed Lewandowski to score his maiden World Cup goal.
Mohame Kanno – 6.5
An energetic display from the Saudi Arabia star who ran all over the pitch and tested Szczesny with an early shot. His impact naturally dwindled by the latter stages
Firas Al-Buraikan – 5.5
The winger started the match on a hot form but he always seemed to lack the final touch.
Saleh Al-Shehri – 6
The striker did his bit by winning a rather soft penalty which was wasted by his teammate. But he struggled to cope with the physically-stronger Kamil Glik.
Salem Al-Dawsari – 5.5
The hero against Argentina stepped forward to convert the spot kick, but Szczesny had the last laugh. He’s obviously the most technically-gifted player for Saudi Arabia, but today he lacked the final product.
Read Our Player Ratings for Poland
Substitutes
Nawaf Al-Abid – 6.5
The experienced midfielder immediately improved the middle of the park following his introduction. A clear upgrade on Al-Najei, but had to leave the pitch late in the match, assumingly with an injury.
Sultan Al Ghanam – 5.5
The fullback was supposed to add some energy to the right lane, but his performance was mostly uninspiring.
Nasser Al Dawsari – N/A
Abdulrahman Al-Obood – N/A
Hattan Sultan Babhir – N/A
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