# Donis Implements Possession-Based Strategy for Saudi National Team Greek coach Giorgos Donis focuses on ball retention and tactical discipline during Qatar training camp. - **Source:** [Asharq Al-Awsat](https://aawsat.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e813b425-ae4a-4f73-a4ca-32ea0751f51c ## Strategic Shift in Training Greek coach Giorgos Donis has prioritized ball possession in over 22 of the 42 training sessions conducted since his tenure began. This focus, spanning from the United States to the current Qatar camp, signals a fundamental shift in the Saudi national team's tactical philosophy, emphasizing control and structured build-up play under pressure. ## Mastering Set-Piece Efficiency Set-piece training ranks second in Donis's regime with 15 dedicated sessions. The team has shown measurable improvement in both offensive and defensive dead-ball situations. Notably, this focus yielded results during the 2026 World Cup, where Abdulelah Al-Amri scored against Uruguay, proving the effectiveness of these specific drills in high-stakes international matches. ## Emphasis on Tactical Passing Passing drills represent the third pillar of the current training program. Donis prioritizes building play from the back, requiring players to maintain composure while under intense pressure. This methodology aims to create a more cohesive unit capable of retaining the ball against technically gifted opponents in upcoming Asian football competitions. ## High Pressing Implementation During the second session in the Qatar camp, the squad practiced high-pressing tactics for the first time. This tactical evolution is designed to prepare the team for upcoming matches against formidable opponents. The coaching staff is testing the players' ability to disrupt opposition rhythm and regain possession quickly in advanced areas. ## Institutional Technical Reporting Upon concluding the Qatar camp, Donis will submit a comprehensive technical report to the Saudi Football Federation. This procedure aims to refine operational workflows and establish a clear roadmap for future training camps. The federation seeks to align current performance metrics with long-term development goals for all national team age groups. ## Contingency Planning Protocols The Saudi Football Federation is actively preparing for various scenarios regarding the coaching staff's future. By maintaining a clear plan for both potential departure or retention, the administration ensures continuity. This approach allows successive technical teams to build upon previous work, fostering stability and consistency across the entire national football program. ## Testing Against Diverse Schools The Saudi team will face South Korea and Uzbekistan on November 13 and 17 at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium. These friendlies provide a critical opportunity to evaluate performance against two distinct Asian football styles. The matches serve as a barometer for the team's technical readiness and physical conditioning before official tournaments. ## Evaluating Defensive Resilience The match against South Korea is a vital test of defensive organization. Given the Korean team's high-tempo play and rapid offensive transitions, the Saudi players must demonstrate discipline under pressure. This encounter will reveal how effectively the squad can handle sustained physical intensity and tactical speed during the full ninety minutes. ## Analyzing Uzbekistan's Tactical Style The friendly against Uzbekistan offers a different challenge, focusing on physical strength and tactical organization. This match allows the coaching staff to assess the team's ability to break down disciplined defensive blocks. It is a key opportunity to experiment with offensive solutions and evaluate the squad's versatility against varied defensive setups. ## Squad Integration and Depth These friendlies allow Donis to test various technical options and evaluate the harmony between team lines. By providing playing time to different elements, the staff aims to expand the pool of available talent. This period is crucial for addressing gaps in offensive efficiency and improving the speed of defensive-to-offensive transitions. ## Future Performance Expectations Public expectations for the Saudi national team remain high as fans look for performances reflecting the players' true potential. The Doha matches serve as a platform to translate technical training into balanced on-field displays. Success here will provide the necessary momentum and confidence required for upcoming official international competitive fixtures. ## Sources covering this story - https://aawsat.com/node/5340313 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._