The recently concluded FIFA Series 2024 in Jeddah marked a historic first for Saudi Arabia. It was the first time the kingdom hosted international friendlies during a FIFA window, featuring eight teams from across the globe.
The matches, held from March 21st to 26th, took place in two Jeddah venues: King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City. Teams from four confederations participated, with Cape Verde (Africa), Cambodia (Asia), Equatorial Guinea (Africa), and Guyana (CONCACAF) in Group A. Group B saw Bermuda (CONCACAF), Brunei Darussalam (Asia), Guinea (Africa), and Vanuatu (Oceania) battle it out.
Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al Misehal praised the event’s success and highlighted the contribution of Saudi Arabia in showcasing its capability to host major sporting events. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the tournament between FIFA and the Saudi Federation, aligning with FIFA’s goals of fostering international football and the development of national teams.
This tournament adds to Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a global sports hub. Recent hosting of prestigious events like the FIFA Club World Cup, Spanish and Italian Super Cups, and the West Asian Women’s Championship solidify this position. Their selection to host the 2027 Asian Cup further underscores this ambition and potential candidacy for the 2034 World Cup hints at even grander aspirations on the international sporting stage.
