Saudi Women’s Team Faces Setback in WAFF Opener Against Jordan

In the opening clash of the 2024 WAFF Women’s Championship, Saudi Arabia faced a setback, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Jordan at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah. Despite the loss, hope remains for the Kingdom in Group A, with upcoming fixtures against Lebanon and Guam offering a chance to progress.

Lluis Cortes’ side displayed resilience, yet Jordan seized control of Group A with a well-fought victory. The path to the knockout stage is still open for Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for crucial encounters against Lebanon and Guam on Wednesday and Friday, respectively.

The match unfolded with Jordan’s Mai Sweilem securing the lead in the 24th minute. However, the Green Falcons responded as Leen Mohammed netted an equalizer at the 33rd-minute mark. Jordan, determined to assert dominance, reclaimed the lead through Maysa Jbarah in the 61st minute. Ayah Al-Majali sealed the victory with a third goal from the penalty spot at the 72nd minute.

The 2024 WAFF Women’s Championship, hosted in Jeddah until Feb. 29, marks Saudi Arabia’s inaugural official 11-a-side women’s tournament. This eighth edition welcomes seven participating nations, including Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Guam, and Nepal, contributing to the growing presence of international football tournaments in Jeddah.

While the defeat in the opener is a setback, Saudi Arabia’s women’s national team remains determined to bounce back in the remaining group stage matches. The upcoming clashes against Lebanon and Guam serve as crucial opportunities to secure a spot in the knockout stage, keeping the Kingdom’s aspirations alive in the 2024 WAFF Women’s Championship.