Uruguay rescue draw against Saudi Arabia in World Cup opener

Uruguay recovered from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia in their opening Group H fixture at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Maxi Araújo scoring a late equaliser after relentless second-half pressure.

Saudi Arabia looked on course for another historic opening-match victory after taking the lead before halftime, but Marcelo Bielsa's tactical adjustments transformed Uruguay after the interval as the South Americans rescued a deserved point.

Saudi Arabia strike first

The Green Falcons produced another disciplined defensive display and capitalised on a set-piece just before halftime.

Following Hassan Al Tambakti's powerful header from a corner, Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera managed to parry the effort, but defender Abdulelah Al Amri reacted quickest to turn the loose ball into the net.

The goal sparked belief among the Saudi players, who were hoping to repeat the heroics of their famous victory over eventual champions Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Bielsa changes the game

Uruguay struggled to create clear opportunities during the opening 45 minutes, prompting head coach Marcelo Bielsa to make two substitutions at halftime, including replacing striker Darwin Núñez.

The changes immediately improved Uruguay's attacking rhythm. Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte came close to equalising, forcing goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais into an outstanding save before the effort rebounded off the post.

Uruguay continued to dominate possession and territory, pinning Saudi Arabia deep inside their own half for much of the second period.

Araújo delivers late reward

Saudi Arabia's resistance was finally broken with ten minutes remaining. Federico Viñas met a cross with a powerful header that Al Owais initially managed to push away, but the rebound fell perfectly for Maxi Araújo, who calmly finished from close range to level the match.

The equaliser reflected Uruguay's dominance after the break, having finished the contest with 28 attempts on goal.

Al Owais keeps Saudi Arabia alive

Although Uruguay controlled the closing stages, Saudi Arabia nearly held on for all three points thanks to an exceptional performance from goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais.

The experienced shot-stopper produced nine saves throughout the match, including a superb stoppage-time stop to deny Federico Valverde's fierce long-range strike.

His performance ensured Saudi Arabia secured a valuable point despite facing relentless pressure during the second half.

Group H wide open

The draw leaves Group H finely balanced after the opening round of fixtures. With Cape Verde also claiming a surprise result against Spain, every team remains firmly in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.

Saudi Arabia will now prepare for a major test against tournament favourites Spain, while Uruguay face Cape Verde knowing victory could significantly strengthen their qualification hopes.

SportsLigue