Saudis prefer Zaid to Al Deayea in goal for opener

By Staff
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Google Oneindia News

MUNICH, June 13 (Reuters) Saudi Arabia keeper Mohamed Al Deayea, who holds the world record for international caps, will make way for Mabrouk Zaid against Tunisia in their Group H opener today coach Marcos Paqueta said.
''Mabrouk Zaid will be in goal and there is no mystery, we will play a 4-4-2 system,'' the Brazilian said.

Al Deayea, who has played in all three of the Saudis previous World Cup campaigns and has 181 caps, was recalled to the squad this year after Zaid had a string of injuries.

However, Paqueta has opted for the younger Zaid, who was nominated for the 2005 Asia Player of the Year award.

He said his team does not face any injuries and was ready to beat a Tunisian team known for its speed and marking.

Experienced skipper Sami Al Jaber, who has been struggling with a thigh muscle injury, is fit to play in his fourth World Cup.

Midfielder Mohamed Noor has also recovered from a flu bug.

''All the players are fit and they recognise the importance of this game,'' Noor said. ''We have a good coach and we are now mentally ready.'' Saudi Arabia need to beat Tunisia tomorrow, arguably their weakest opponents, to give themselves a chance of reaching the second round. They also face Ukraine and Spain.

''For us this match is huge. It is a junction and that is how we approach it,'' said third-choice keeper Mohammad Khojah.

Reuters

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