Saudi Arabia vs Serbia

Two teams reeling from heavy defeats collide in Backa Topola for a friendly neither can afford to lose. Saudi Arabia were torn apart 4-0 by Egypt on Friday, while Serbia suffered a 3-0 drubbing by European champions Spain. This first-ever meeting between the two nations carries real weight with confidence rock-bottom on both sides. Serbia will lean on Aleksandar Mitrovic and Atalanta's Lazar Samardzic to unlock a Saudi defence that looked woefully exposed against Egypt. Rotation is expected, with Luka Jovic and Sasa Lukic pushing for starts. Hervé Renard has recalled goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais for Saudi Arabia as World Cup preparations intensify ahead of a brutal group featuring Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde. Firas Al-Buraikan remains the Green Falcons' main attacking threat, but the defence needs serious tightening after that Egypt mauling. Home advantage should tip this in Serbia's favour despite their own dismal form. Expect a scrappy affair between two sides desperately searching for rhythm. Our prediction: 1-2