In a thrilling Group H clash at Miami Stadium, underdogs Saudi Arabia held fancied Uruguay to a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Abdulelah Al-Amri gave Saudi Arabia a deserved half-time lead in the 41st minute, heading home from a corner to score his country's first goal of the tournament. The Green Falcons defended resolutely thereafter, frustrating Uruguay's attacking efforts.
Saudi Arabia and Uruguay share points in FIFA World Cup 2026 opener
Uruguay dominated possession in the second half but repeatedly ran into a brick wall in the form of goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais. The Saudi shot-stopper produced a string of outstanding saves, reportedly seven in total, and was widely praised as the man of the match by fans and observers alike.
Maximiliano Araújo finally leveled the score for Marcelo Bielsa’s side in the 80th minute, pouncing on a rebound to rescue a point for the South Americans. Despite late pressure, Saudi Arabia held firm to earn a valuable draw.
The result echoes Saudi Arabia's giant-killing reputation on the World Cup stage and gives both teams a foothold in Group H as they prepare for tougher tests ahead. Uruguay will look to improve their finishing, while Saudi Arabia will take confidence from another resilient performance against stronger opposition.
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