For Coach Ivan, this game is a win-or-go-home situation that can't be missed. In the first round against Japan, the national soccer team lost 0-7, but Ivan unexpectedly stayed in the job, a decision that made everyone in an uproar. If the second round of the home to face Saudi Arabia, if the national football team can win again, I am afraid that Ivan's coaching career will be in jeopardy. Looking back at the last 12-team tournament, the national soccer team shook hands with Saudi Arabia and ended the match with a score of 1-1. This time the two teams are reunited, the national football players have a strong desire to beat their opponents.
Saudi Arabia draws 1-1 with Indonesia as marquee team under huge pressure
As the third power in Group C, Saudi Arabia drew 1-1 with Indonesia in the first round. Saudi Arabia was expected to win at home, however, Dawasari's penalty kick was valiantly saved by the opponents, and they could only leave with a point in the end. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become the focus of world soccer, with soccer stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Mane joining the country, which not only enhances the spectacle of the league, but also deprives many Saudi internationals of a stable chance to play in the league. This situation is reminiscent of the Chinese Super League's "Golden Dollar Era".
The Saudi coaching team is star-studded. Their head coach is Italian star Roberto Mancini and his assistant is Manchester City star Yaya Toure. Mancini has led Italy to win Euro 2020 and has won the Premier League title, Serie A title and many other honors while coaching at the club. However, after coaching Saudi Arabia, Mancini is under immense pressure. At the Asian Cup, Saudi Arabia was eliminated by South Korea and finished only in the top eight. In the past seven official matches, Saudi Arabia only won two. If he is unable to win against China, the risk of dismissal will be inevitable.
The match between the national soccer team and Saudi Arabia is a must-win game for both sides. At the same time, it is also a life-and-death match between Saudi Arabia coach Roberto Mancini and national soccer coach Ivan. Who will be dismissed? This suspense attracts people's imagination.
