Amidst these trying circumstances, a report from The Sun sparked attention, claiming that Ronaldo’s private jet had departed Saudi Arabia, landing in Madrid early in the morning. Although flightradar.com provides information suggesting a jet left Riyadh, there was no confirmation that Ronaldo or his family were passengers on this flight. In fact, Fabrizio Romano reported hours later that Ronaldo stayed in Saudi Arabia to continue with his treatment at Al Nassr training ground, having dealt with issues in his last appearance.

The ongoing turmoil has led to the cancellation or suspension of several events in the Middle East, casting doubt over whether matches like the anticipated Argentina vs Spain game in the 2026 Finalissima will take place as scheduled in March.

In addition, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has opted to suspend fixtures related to the AFC Champions League in various Middle Eastern nations. This includes the match between Al Nassr and Al Wasl in the AFC Cup, which was slated for this week.

Former teammate of Ronaldo recounts his experience in Dubai

The Sun‘s report includes an interview with Rio Ferdinand, a former teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo. Ferdinand shared harrowing details of his family’s experience amidst the conflict.

“It’s frightening when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets – I don’t know what it is – going above us, and you’re hearing big bombs, and what that is we don’t know as we don’t know the details of what they are. It’s telling your kids what it is and helping them navigate through this moment, which is important especially as the dad of the house,” Ferdinand revealed.

As uncertainty looms over the future of sports events in the Middle East, the report of Ronaldo’s potential departure adds to the speculation about how this conflict will unfold, impacting teams and federations worldwide.

[Watch Morocco vs Saudi Arabia online in the US on Fubo]

Group B at the 2025 Arab Cup wraps with a pivotal clash between regional powers Saudi Arabia and Morocco, both headed to the next World Cup and carrying high expectations in the tournament.

Saudi Arabia lead the group with six points and needs only a draw to secure the top spot, but Morocco — sitting on four points and still at risk — enters as a legitimate title threat seeking a win that could flip the standings and send them through on their own terms.

When will the Morocco vs Saudi Arabia match be played?

Morocco play against Saudi Arabia this Monday, December 8, in the Matchday 3 of the 2025 Arab Cup group stage. The game is set to kick off at 12:00 PM (ET).

Morocco vs Saudi Arabia: Time by State in the USA

ET: 12:00 PM
CT: 11:00 AM
MT: 10:00 AM
PT: 9:00 AM

How to watch Morocco vs Saudi Arabia in the USA

Get ready for the 2025 Arab Cup clash between Morocco and Saudi Arabia. Catch all the action live on Fubo. Other options: beIN SPORTS and Fanatiz.

[Watch Colombia U20 vs Saudi Arabia U20 online in the US on Fubo]

Colombia and Saudi Arabia meet in a clash that highlights the rapid rise of both nations on the global stage. Colombia has cemented itself as a true contender in South America, regularly pushing traditional giants.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has grown into one of Asia’s premier forces. With both sides eager to showcase their next generation of stars, this U20 showdown carries plenty of intrigue and significance for the future of international soccer.

When will the Colombia U20 vs Saudi Arabia U20 match be played?

Colombia U20 face Saudi Arabia U20 on Monday, September 29, for the Matchday 1 of the 2025 U20 World Cup group stage. The clash is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM (ET).

Colombia U20 vs Saudi Arabia U20: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:00 PM
CT: 6:00 PM
MT: 5:00 PM
PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch Colombia U20 vs Saudi Arabia U20 in the USA

Don’t miss this exciting 2025 U20 World Cup match between Colombia U20 and Saudi Arabia U20 in the USA. Watch the match on Fubo. Other options: DirecTV Stream, FS2, FOX Sports App, Telemundo.

From the opening whistle, Mexico controlled possession and imposed their rhythm, using quick passes and wing play to probe the Saudi defense. Despite sustained pressure and several promising chances, the first half ended goalless as Saudi Arabia’s defense, led by Majrashi and disciplined in their shape, kept the Mexicans at bay. However, Mexico’s persistence paid off early in the second half when Alexis Vega capitalized on a perfectly timed pass from Raúl Jiménez to open the scoring.

Saudi Arabia responded by trying to push forward and find an equalizer, but their attacks lacked the necessary precision to break through Mexico’s well-organized defense. In a cruel twist for the Saudis, an own goal by Abdullah Madu following a cross from Mateo Chávez doubled Mexico’s advantage late in the game. This second goal effectively sealed the match and secured Mexico’s place in the semifinals.

Overall, the match showcased Mexico’s ability to control high-pressure situations and capitalize on key moments, with Alexis Vega standing out as the difference-maker. Saudi Arabia fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t overcome the quality and experience of their opponents. As the tournament progresses, Mexico looks poised to continue their quest for Gold Cup glory.

[Watch Mexico vs Saudi Arabia live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

The quarterfinal showdown shapes up as one of the tournament’s most intriguing clashes: Mexico arrives with the deeper roster and stronger results but has yet to topple a true heavyweight—most notably falling short against Costa Rica—and now must prove its favorite tag is well-earned.

Saudi Arabia, riding the momentum of a rock-solid defense and galvanized by underdog spirit, looks ready to challenge one of the big contenders and pull off a stunning upset. Fans won’t want to miss this battle for a spot in the semifinals.

When will the Mexico vs Saudi Arabia match be played?

Mexico play against Saudi Arabia on Saturday, June 28, in the Gold Cup 2025 quarterfinals. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:15 PM (ET).

Mexico vs Saudi Arabia: Time by State in the USA

ET: 10:15 PM
CT: 9:15 PM
MT: 8:15 PM
PT: 7:15 PM

How to watch Mexico vs Saudi Arabia in the USA

The 2025 Gold Cup clash between Mexico and Saudi Arabia will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo (free trial). Fans can also catch the action on FS1, Univision, TUDN, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, ViX.

Mexico advanced to the knockout round after a strong showing in Group A, finishing with two wins and one draw. They opened with a thrilling 3–2 victory over the Dominican Republic, followed by a commanding 2–0 win over Suriname. A scoreless draw against Costa Rica closed out group play. So far, midfielder Edson Álvarez has been Mexico’s standout performer, anchoring the midfield with composure and leadership.

Saudi Arabia, by contrast, had a more turbulent path through Group D. They began with a narrow 1–0 win over Haiti, then fell 1–0 to the United States in their second match. A 1–1 draw with Trinidad and Tobago allowed them to clinch a quarterfinal spot. Their top performer has been forward Saleh Al-Shehri, who continues to lead the front line with determination and energy.

These two national teams have met six times in their history, with Mexico holding a dominant edge — five wins and one draw. The track record clearly favors El Tri, but tournament soccer is known for surprises, and Saudi Arabia will look to defy the odds.

What happens if Mexico beat Saudi Arabia?

If Mexico defeat Saudi Arabia in this quarterfinal matchup, they will secure a spot in the semifinals of the 2025 Gold Cup. They will then face the winner of the other quarterfinal clash between Panama and Honduras.

What happens if Mexico and Saudi Arabia tie?

If the match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, the result will be decided by a penalty shootout. Per tournament rules, there is no extra time in the quarterfinal round — teams go straight to penalties.

What happens if Mexico lose to Saudi Arabia?

Should Mexico fall to Saudi Arabia, they will be eliminated from the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup. It would mark a shocking result, as Saudi Arabia would pull off one of the biggest upsets in recent tournament history and advance to face either Panama or Honduras in the semifinals.

[Watch Mexico vs Saudi Arabia live for free in the USA on Fubo]

Mexico arrive in the knockout stage after a strong showing in Group A, where they secured two wins and a draw. El Tri edged the Dominican Republic in a thrilling 3–2 opener, followed by a dominant 2–0 victory over Suriname. A scoreless draw against Costa Rica wrapped up their group campaign. So far, Edson Álvarez has stood out as Mexico’s most influential player, anchoring the midfield with poise and leadership.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, had a less convincing path through Group D. They opened with a narrow 1–0 win over Haiti, fell 1–0 to the United States in their second match, and closed group play with a 1–1 draw against Trinidad and Tobago. Their top performer has been striker Saleh Al-Shehri, who continues to lead the line with energy and purpose.

Mexico’s confirmed lineup

Mexico will be without one of their most iconic figures, as goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa remains sidelined. Despite his absence, head coach Luis Aguirre is expected to field a strong starting XI in search of a semifinal berth. The squad looks ready to lean on its key veterans and dynamic attackers.

Mexico’s confirmed lineup: Luis Malagón; Julian Araujo, Edson Alvarez, Johan Vásquez, Johan Vazquez; Erik Lira, Gilberto Mora; Roberto Alvarado, Marcel Ruiz, Alexis Vega, Raul Jiménez.

Saudi Arabia’s confirmed lineup

Saudi Arabia are hoping to shock the tournament with an upset over Mexico, and they’ll likely go with their most trusted formation and core players. Head coach Hervé Renard has emphasized discipline and opportunism throughout the group stage.

Saudi Arabia’s confirmed lineup: Nawaf Al-Aqidi; Ali Majrashi, Abdullah Madu, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Nawaf Boushal; Saud Abdulhamid, Ali Al-Hassan, Ziyad Al-Johani; Abdulrahman Al-Alobud, Ayman Yahya, Saleh Al-Shehri.

[Watch Saudi Arabia vs Trinidad and Tobago live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

Saudi Arabia head into this final Matchday still searching for a spot in the next round after falling short against the United States, despite showing flashes of quality throughout the tournament. Their path is clear—they need a win to keep their hopes alive.

On the other side, Trinidad and Tobago, fresh off a 1-1 draw with Haiti, are determined to pull off an upset. The Caribbean squad knows that a victory, combined with Haiti failing to beat the US, would send them through to the next stage, and they’re fully focused on chasing that shot at a dramatic qualification.

When will the Saudi Arabia vs Trinidad and Tobago match be played?

Saudi Arabia will face Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday, June 22, in Matchday 3 of the Gold Cup 2025 group stage. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM (ET).

Saudi Arabia vs Trinidad and Tobago: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:00 PM
CT: 6:00 PM
MT: 5:00 PM
PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch Saudi Arabia vs Trinidad and Tobago in the USA

The 2025 Gold Cup clash between Saudi Arabia and Trinidad and Tobago will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo (free trial). Fans can also catch the action on FS1, UniMás, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, ViX.

[Watch Saudi Arabia vs USA live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

Saudi Arabia battled through a tougher-than-expected opener but managed to grind out a crucial 1-0 win over Haiti, keeping their hopes alive as they push for another victory to lock in a spot in the next round.

On the other side, the United States stormed through their debut with a dominant 5-0 rout of Trinidad and Tobago and now have their sights set on securing qualification with another strong performance as they hunt for three more points.

When will the Saudi Arabia vs USA match be played?

Saudi Arabia play against USA on Thursday, June 19, in Matchday 2 of the Gold Cup 2025 group stage. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:15 PM (ET).

Saudi Arabia vs USA: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:15 PM
CT: 8:15 PM
MT: 7:15 PM
PT: 6:15 PM

How to watch Saudi Arabia vs USA in the USA

This Gold Cup 2025 clash between Saudi Arabia and USA will be available for viewers in the USA through Fubo (free trial). Other options are FS1, UniMás, TUDN, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, ViX.

[Watch Haiti vs Saudi Arabia live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

After that humbling 5-1 defeat to Curacao in the CONCACAF Qualifiers, Haiti are eager to turn the page and ignite their campaign in a Group D draw that has them pegged as underdogs.

Saudi Arabia, alongside the United States, stand atop the favorites list, and the Saudis are determined to open with a statement victory against the resilient Caribbean side, who will push hard to engineer a shock result.

When will the Haiti vs Saudi Arabia match be played?

Haiti will play against Saudi Arabia this Sunday, June 15, in Matchday 1 of the Gold Cup 2025 group stage. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 PM (ET).

Haiti vs Saudi Arabia: Time by State in the USA

ET: 8:15 PM
CT: 7:15 PM
MT: 6:15 PM
PT: 5:15 PM

How to watch Haiti vs Saudi Arabia in the USA

This Gold Cup 2025 clash between Haiti and Saudi Arabia will be available for viewers in the USA through Fubo (free trial). Other options are FS1, Univision, TUDN, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, ViX.

The Gold Cup is the most prestigious national team tournament organized by Concacaf, the soccer confederation that includes countries from North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and even some from South America. Saudi Arabia’s participation, then, is clearly not due to geography, but rather to an invitation extended by Concacaf.

The decision had been rumored for months before it was officially announced late last year, shortly after Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the host of the FIFA World Cup 2034. The move is intended to strengthen ties between the two confederations, while also offering both competitive and commercial advantages

On the sporting side, it gives Saudi Arabia the opportunity to compete in a high-level tournament—an opportunity that will be repeated in the 2027 edition—and helps the team prepare for upcoming challenges. Commercially, it’s also a win for Concacaf, generating interest in regions of the world that would otherwise give little or no attention to the Gold Cup.

What other teams from around the world have played in the Gold Cup?

Saudi Arabia’s invitation to play in the 2025 Gold Cup adds to a long list of similar cases over the past few decades. The first time this happened was in 1996, when Brazil took part with a U-23 squad that reached the final but lost to Mexico. That happened again in 1998 and 2003.

Colombia also competed in the Gold Cup three times—in 2000, 2003, and 2005—while Peru (2000) and Ecuador (2002) are the other South American teams that have participated. In 2005, South Africa became the first (and so far only) African team to play in the tournament.

Saudi Arabia will have its first opportunity to compete in the Gold Cup this summer, and they will do it again in two years. But they’re not the first Asian side to take part in the tournament: South Korea (2000 and 2002) and Qatar (2021 and 2023) also competed. In these cases, a clear pattern emerges: these teams joined in the years leading up to hosting the World Cup, as a way to build competitive rhythm.

The challenges facing Saudi Arabia in the 2025 Gold Cup

Saudi Arabia is in Group D of the 2025 Gold Cup. They will make their tournament debut this Sunday against Haiti at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. On Thursday, June 19, they’ll face their toughest test of the group stage against the United States at Q2 Stadium in Austin. Finally, the Asian side will wrap up their group play on Sunday, June 22, against Trinidad and Tobago at Allegiant Stadium in Nevada.