Thousands of Saudi football fans gathered in Miami on Saturday to celebrate ahead of their national team’s opening match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The march, organized by the Saudi National Team Fans Council, saw supporters waving national flags and singing patriotic songs as they prepared to rally behind the Green Falcons.

The World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, has already kicked off, with all three host nations having played their initial games. Saudi Arabia is set to begin its campaign in Group H with a match against Uruguay on Tuesday in Miami. The Green Falcons will also face Spain and Cape Verde during the group stage. Supporters hope the squad can advance past the group phase for only the second time in the country’s history, recalling their previous milestone at the 1994 World Cup, which was also held in the U.S.

Meanwhile, the Saudi team’s Greek head coach, Georgios Donis, led a closed training session on Saturday at the Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. Donis, who assumed the role just two months ago, has been working closely with players to instill his tactical approach. Midfielder Abdullah Al-Khaibari told reporters that daily training and tactical meetings have been key in helping the squad adapt to Donis’s style. He also acknowledged the foundation laid by former coach Herve Renard.

Defender Moteb Al-Harbi described the team as entering its final preparation stage, emphasizing the players’ determination to perform strongly against Uruguay in front of their fans and for the pride of Saudi Arabia.

In a separate development, Saudi referee Abdullah Al-Shehri expressed his pride in being selected to officiate at the World Cup. Describing the appointment as an "exceptional career milestone," Al-Shehri credited the AFC Referees Academy for his development and the skills required to compete on football’s biggest stage. He underscored the honor of representing Saudi Arabia among the world’s top referees and expressed hope that his participation would inspire future generations within the country’s refereeing community.

The tournament presents Saudi Arabia with an opportunity to build on its football legacy, as fans and players alike prepare to showcase their talent on the international stage.