The ‘cardboard laughing stock’ who pulled off an all-time World Cup shock

SHOCK OF THE AGES: Saudi Arabia pose for a team photo. Pic: Nick Potts/PA Wire.

THERE is always something of an unknown quantity to Saudi Arabia. Most of the 32 teams at this World Cup have at least a sprinkling of players who play in the leading European leagues. 

Saudi Arabia’s players, like Qatar’s, play exclusively in their own domestic league, the Saudi Pro League.