French coach Hervé Renard faces a fresh high-stakes test as he leads Saudi Arabia into a crucial semi-final showdown against Jordan on Monday in the Arab Cup FIFA 2025 in Qatar. All eyes will be on the Green Falcons’ manager, whose impressive record in this stage makes him a key factor heading into the decisive clash against the Nashama.
A Semi-Final Specialist
Renard brings a strong résumé when it comes to semi-finals. Since the start of his managerial career in 2004, he has taken charge of four semi-final matches, winning three and losing only once—an encouraging record that gives Saudi Arabia a psychological lift ahead of Monday’s encounter.
A Proven Performer Under Pressure
Throughout his career, Renard has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to handle knockout-stage pressure and deliver results when it matters most.
In the 2019 Arabian Gulf Cup, he guided Saudi Arabia to a valuable 1–0 victory over Qatar in the semi-final—courtesy of a goal from Abdullah Al-Hamdan—sending the Green Falcons to the final, where they narrowly missed out on the title after losing to Bahrain.
The Lone Setback.. and a Chance for Redemption
Renard’s only semi-final setback came in the 2024 Gulf Cup (“Gulf 26”), when Saudi Arabia fell 2–1 to Oman on 30 December in the semi-finals.
The upcoming showdown with Jordan provides the French coach with an ideal opportunity to restore his dominance in decisive stages and reclaim momentum in a tournament rich in competitive and emotional value.
African Glory.. A Coach Built for Big Moments
Renard’s reputation extends well beyond Gulf competitions. He achieved historic success in Africa, becoming the first manager to win the Africa Cup of Nations with two different national teams.
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2012: Led Zambia to a shock 1–0 semi-final victory over Ghana before lifting the title.
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2015: Guided Côte d’Ivoire to a commanding 3–1 win over DR Congo in the semi-finals en route to another continental crown.
These milestones cemented his status as a coach unafraid of the sport’s most decisive challenges.
Return to Saudi Arabia… and Ambition That Doesn’t Slow Down
Renard returned to the Saudi national team in October 2024 following a successful first spell between 2019 and 2023, during which he famously led the Green Falcons to qualification for the 2022 World Cup.
Less than a year into his second stint, he has already restored Saudi Arabia’s momentum, steering the team to qualification for the next World Cup and laying firm foundations for the future.
Now, at the Arab Cup 2025, Renard is seeking to add a new chapter to his impressive legacy—one that could start with overcoming Jordan and marching into another major final.
