What happened next...

Following this memorable victory, Saudi Arabia had a dream debut in the following year's FIFA World Cup finals in the USA, where they stormed into the second round. This tremendous success kick-started Saudi Arabia's all-conquering period in Asian FIFA World Cup qualifying; impressively, they have qualified for every single edition of the tournament since 1994.

Iran, who were then in the rebuilding process after the Gulf War, had gained precious international experience and exposure during the campaign. They proved to be Asia's most consistent performers in the next few years, and their progress culminated in qualification for France 1998 four years later, when they eliminated Australia in a two-leg playoff.

The two sides have now developed a familiar rivalry, especially in FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They met four times on the road to France 1998 and Korea/Japan 2002, claiming a win each, with two games ending in draws. The battles between these two, now regarded as the leading sides in West Asia, are always tight, tense and furiously competitive.
source