Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais shines with record saves as Saudi Arabia hold Uruguay to 1-1 draw in World Cup opener

Another goalkeeper shone last night after Cape Verde’s Vozinha’s heroics vs Spain. In a thrilling Group H opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Saudi Arabia's goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais delivered a heroic performance, making nine saves, the highest total by any keeper in the tournament so far, to help his side earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Uruguay. 

Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais shines with record saves as Saudi Arabia hold Uruguay to 1-1 draw in World Cup opener

Saudi Arabia took a surprise lead in the 41st minute when defender Abdulelah Al-Amri headed home from a corner. Uruguay, despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, struggled to break through until Maxi Araújo equalized in the 80th minute.

Al-Owais was the standout performer, producing a string of impressive stops, including a crucial late save on a Federico Valverde effort in stoppage time. His display came on the heels of another strong goalkeeping showing earlier in the day by Cape Verde's Vozinha against Spain, highlighting the tournament's early theme of shot-stopping excellence. 

The result gives both teams a point in their World Cup campaign. Saudi Arabia demonstrated resilience and organization against a favored Uruguay side, while the South Americans will look to improve their finishing in upcoming matches.

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