Saudi Arabia loses to Italy during World Cup preparations

CAIRO – 29 May 2018: Saudi Arabia lost 2-1 to Italy on Monday night at Arena Kybunpark, Switzerland, during their preparations for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Italy achieved their first victory under their new manager, Roberto Mancini, who succeeded the sacked, Gian Piero Ventura, who failed to lead the team to the World Cup.

Mario Balotelli opened the score for Italy through a screamer after he dribbled three Saudi Arabian defenders to make the score 1-0 after 20 minutes.

Italy doubled the score at the second half when he followed the ball inside the Saudi box to make the score 2-0.



Italy had many chances to score more goals through Lorenzo Insigne but the Saudi goalkeeper stopped it from happening.

Saudi Arabia scored their only goal through Yahya al-Shehri who passed the Italian goalkeeper to make the score 2-1.



Both teams failed to score in the remaining minutes to end the game 2-1.



Saudi Arabia played six friendly games since their qualification to the World Cup. They lost to Iraq and Belgium, defeated Moldova, Greece and Algeria and their game against Ukraine ended with a draw.

Saudi Arabia plays in Group A alongside Egypt, Uruguay and the hosts, Russia. The Arab teams will face each other at their last group stage match.