Faces of Football: Saudi Arabia - letter to the national team

Dear Saudi Arabian national team, 

It is almost time for us to head to watch Saudi Arabia once again play on the biggest stage in world football, but before the first whistle blows and before you represent our country with pride, I would like to share this message with you. I’d like to let you all know that we, your fans, are for every step of the journey in Qatar, and will be cheering you on all the way. 

My name is Hala Khashoggi, I’m from Jeddah and I’m a medical student and a football player for Ittihad Ladies Football club. I’ve been a fan of the national team ever since I can remember, and it was you guys who inspired me to go and become a footballer. I am immensely proud every time I watch the team wearing the white and green jerseys, it inspires me and I hope it inspires other men and women from regions such as Mohammed noor, Hattan Bahabri and countless others. What you do on the field makes me so proud to be Saudi Arabian, and I’m sure that at the Qatar World Cup you will show the world what we are made of. 

Our national team has given us some amazing moments through the years, with the main one of course being reaching the round of 16 in 1994 - a truly remarkable achievement for a country of our size. I truly believe that we can achieve something similar this winter. 

What I love about the current team is the unity you show on and off the pitch, and the modern style of play you have adopted. I have one simple piece of advice for our manager Herve Renard: please trust this style of player and give our young talented players a chance to express themselves at the tournament. 

Unfortunately I will be unable to attend the tournament in Qatar as I will be playing for my club in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, and I’m sure I will be motivated to give my all on the pitch after seeing you all do the same at the World Cup. 

I can’t wait to see what amazing moments you produce at the tournament this winter. It would be wonderful if you get through to the knockout rounds but, regardless of results, we will be here to back you through thick and thin and to cheer you on when you need it. 

You have given us some incredible moments down the years and I can only thank you for that. 

With much love and support. Carry us to glory! 

Sincerely, 

Hala Khashoggi