Position: Defender
Born: 03.04.79
Club: Al Ahli

A solid and dependable centre-back, Naif Al Qadi has formed a formidable defensive partnership with Hamad Al-Montashari.

Saudi Arabia conceded only one goal in six games during the final stage of Asian qualification, and much of this was down to their central defensive partnership, as well as the continued development of keeper Mabrouk Zaid.

Al Qadi may be less talented than his defensive partner, but he frequently does the hard work that gives Al-Montashari the freedom to play in his more expansive style.

Their partnership is going to be crucial if Saudi Arabia are to prevent a repeat of four years ago when they lost all three games, conceding 12 goals in the process.