French coach Hervé Renard acknowledged that the Saudi national team did not deserve to win against Mexico, in their final group stage match of the Qatar World Cup on Wednesday. He stated in a press conference that his team suffered from significant absences due to injuries when facing a fast opponent, noting that the group was tough with three world-class teams, a sentiment echoed for the Qatari team.
Renard said, "The numerous absences contributed to our performance being less than what we showed in the matches against Argentina and Poland, and after the injuries, we had to adapt to the situation... Against Mexico, we only played well in the final minutes." He added, "We had some opportunities, but when you are compelled to win, will you leave spaces? It was difficult; these are indeed tough moments. We scored a goal, but it was late; it should have been scored earlier."
He continued, "If it weren't for the brilliance of Mohammed Al-Owais, we would have faced a bigger defeat, but on a general level in the tournament, I congratulate the players on what they delivered, and I am proud of them." Renard noted that "in the entire history of Saudi football, the Saudi team has only qualified once for the Round of 16."
He explained that the match against Poland showcased good performance from the Saudi team, but luck was not on their side, emphasizing that the World Cup is an important tournament that provides a great deal of experience for players and coaches, with enjoyable fan atmospheres despite the level of football being displayed.
Hervé Renard confirmed that the Saudi national team is preparing vigorously for the Asia Cup and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
