Abdullah Al-Salem scores first Saudi Arabia goal at 33 in rare milestone

Abdullah Al-Salem scored his first international goal for Saudi Arabia at the age of 33 as his side defeated Iraq 2-0 in the Gulf tournament.

The Al Qadsiah forward opened the scoring in the 54th minute of the third and final group-stage match at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah on Tuesday.

Al-Salem reacted quickest after Iraq goalkeeper Ahmed Basal failed to deal with a dropping ball, allowing the Saudi Arabia striker to finish into an unguarded net.

The goal came in Al-Salem’s fourth appearance for the national team and was his first since making his debut. It also marked his first start for Saudi Arabia.

His rise to the international side began in March last year, when French manager Herve Renard called him up for the first time at the age of 32.

Al-Salem then made substitute appearances against China in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, before coming off the bench against the United States and Mexico at the 2025 Gold Cup.

His start against Iraq completed an unusual path into the national team for a player who had already reached his early thirties before receiving his first call-up.

The 33-year-old has built an extensive career in the Roshn Saudi League, representing several clubs during his career.

He spent the second half of the 2018-2019 season on loan at Al Nassr, and has also played for Al Khaleej, Al Ettifaq and Al Fayha. He currently represents Al Qadsiah.

Saudi Arabia’s victory over Iraq secured a 2-0 result in the final group match, with Al-Salem’s goal giving them the lead after the break.

The Saudi Sports Channels highlighted the moment on social media with the caption: “Goal! The first goal for our national team was scored by Abdullah Al-Salem – Saudi Arabia 1 – Iraq 0.”