Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis says his team will not show Spain excessive respect as it targets a repeat of a shock victory from the 2022 World Cup. Donis compares the upcoming match to Saudi Arabia’s earlier upset of eventual winners Argentina, describing it as a result his side wants to emulate against Spain.
Spain enters the game under pressure to respond after drawing 0-0 with World Cup debutants Cape Verde. The result leaves Spain seeking a turnaround, while the match against Saudi Arabia is presented as a key test.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, comes in after its opening match ended in a 1-1 draw with Uruguay. With both teams having dropped points in their respective first games, the meeting is framed as a chance to gain momentum early in the tournament.
Donis is also highlighted as a relatively new coach for the tournament hosts of 2034, having taken charge in April after shorter spells by previous managers Roberto Mancini and Hervé Renard.
